UDAIPUR, India – A retired Indian Army officer and his wife have successfully transformed 2.5 acres of arid, cactus-ridden land near Udaipur into a flourishing 10-room heritage homestay, Devra. Major Durga Das, 66, and Jyoti Jasol, 57, embarked on this ambitious project spanning nearly a decade, culminating in the establishment of a property renowned for its traditional Marwari architecture and sustainable practices.
From Barren Plot to Bountiful Farm
The couple purchased the land in 1994, captivated by Udaipur's charm during a road trip. However, the plot was largely infertile, supporting little beyond cactus. After an initial, unsuccessful foray into floriculture, Jyoti Jasol returned to the property in 1999 to pursue their vision of a homestay, with Devra officially opening its doors to guests in 2004.
A critical step in the land's revitalization involved enriching its soil. Jyoti recounts bringing mineral-rich loamy soil from Pichola Lake to enable cultivation, a practice that has since been restricted due to environmental regulations. Today, Devra boasts lush fields and farms, producing a variety of crops including wheat, seasonal vegetables, jowar, methi, avlas, berries, jamuns, guavas, chikoos (harvesting 400 kg annually), neem, tamarind, and dates.
A Homestay Rooted in Tradition and Sustainability
Devra operates on permaculture principles, emphasizing ecological harmony and sustainable living. The homestay's kitchen adheres to traditional cooking methods, serving authentic Rajasthani dishes such as lal maas, bhuta ki subji, tarbuz ki subji, and makki and bajra chulha rotis, prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Guests at Devra are invited to immerse themselves in the local culture through heritage cooking classes, bird watching excursions, and guided village visits. Major Das views Devra as more than just a place to stay; it is an opportunity to foster environmental awareness and cultural appreciation among visitors. For Jyoti, the journey of building Devra became a profound lesson in patience and the organic unfolding of life's processes.
“I saw this (Devra) as an opportunity to cultivate a generation that is acutely aware of their surroundings,” Major Das shared.
“The journey taught me to be patient and take things as they come. Everything happens in its own space and time,” added Jyoti Jasol.
The transformation of this barren land into a vibrant, self-sustaining homestay stands as a testament to the couple's perseverance and their deep commitment to preserving and promoting Rajasthani heritage and ecological stewardship.