From Cactus-Strewn Land to a Lush Homestay: An Ex-Army Officer and Wife's Vision in Udaipur

In 1994, Major Durga Das, an ex-Army officer, and his wife Jyoti Jasol purchased 2.5 acres of barren land in Udaipur, a landscape dominated by cacti. Driven by a desire for a more creative life and the Major's commitment to serving both nation and environment, they envisioned a transformation. Their initial venture into floriculture proved unsuccessful, but Jyoti harbored a persistent dream of establishing a homestay.

Returning to the land in 1999, Jyoti collaborated with local craftsmen like Shivji to construct what would become 'Devra,' a name honoring local tribal temples. To revitalize the soil, they strategically brought nutrient-rich, loamy earth from Pichola Lake, a practice no longer permitted today. By 2004, Devra officially opened its doors with three rooms, evolving into a 10-bedroom heritage homestay amidst flourishing fields.

Today, Devra boasts extensive permaculture, yielding a diverse range of produce from wheat and seasonal vegetables to various fruits, including 400 kg of chikoos annually. Traditional chulha cooking methods, often led by Shivji’s wife Rupa Bai, who remains an integral part of the staff, offer authentic flavors. Jyoti also teaches these heritage cooking techniques, attributing the deliciousness to the land's fertility and unique homemade fertilizers. The couple actively integrates into the local community, taking guests to nearby villages for cultural exchange. Their journey exemplifies the power of persistence and collaboration in building something significant from scratch.

Why it matters: This story highlights how dedication and community spirit can transform barren land into a thriving, sustainable haven, providing livelihoods and preserving local culture.

Editor's note: The article accurately summarizes the source material regarding the origin and development of the Devra homestay.

This article is AI-generated and fact-gated. Original reporting: The Better India