Life is a two-way connect with nature for this couple

When Rajesh Shah and Vallari Shah started building their house in Bengaluru a year after moving from the US, the first thing they asked their architect was to help them instal a composting system there.

A water conservationist, Rajesh has always strived to live a life in the company of nature, embrace its gifts and contribute to it. After moving into the house, Rajesh and Vallari live by the philosophy of soil, soul and society that translates into consuming what grows in the soil, feeding the soul through meditation and living in a community of like-minded individuals. Their house is testimony to this.

A believer in minimalistic living, the house of Rajesh and Vallari does not have an air-conditioner or an RO purifier.

The water used is a product of rainwater harvesting that is consumed as it is or after sand filtration. “We wanted our homes to be an extension of ourselves. We are striving to do everything we can to reduce our needs and rejuvenate further. We follow a plant-based diet which goes beyond veganism. Our electricity needs are fulfilled by solar energy,” said Rajesh.

Water recycling
Their house in Laughing Waters, Whitefield, boasts of an effective grey water-recycling system that helps irrigate their gardens. Almost 90% of their food is grown on their terrace garden. The grains are sourced from a network of organic farmers. “Our cutlery is also made from eco friendly materials like leaves and wood. We compost our food waste. Most of our commute is through bicycles and our car is almost never used, though we lend it to friends for their use,” said Rajesh. They also host meditation circles often to help people connect to their inner selves. The eco friendly couple often donate most of their possessions to charities and organisations. Anyone is free to walk into their house and ask for what they need.
DH News Service