A 12-Year Journey: Embracing a Sustainable Lifestyle, One Step at a Time

My journey toward a sustainable lifestyle spanned 12 years. It was gradual but a definite change. In the coming days, I will share my experiences as a series.

My journey toward a sustainable lifestyle (part 1):

It commenced in 2008 during a shopping trip when I stumbled upon a stall set up by National Geographic in Bangalore. I was given an eco-friendly tote bag in exchange for a plastic bag. The volunteer explained how plastic bags are detrimental to the environment and how reusable cloth bags are beneficial while shopping.

In the winter of that same year, I paid a visit to Ms. Swathi Seshadri. She was my thesis advisor during post-graduation, and I held meetings at her residence for my research. She was a social advocate from Bangalore who contributed to the Narmada Bachao Andolan and various other movements throughout India in the early 2000s. At her home, I observed that the balconies on three sides of the apartment were adorned with plants.

In November 2009, I met Dr. Regi George and Dr. Lalitha Regi of the Tribal Health Initiative in Sittilingi. Through their efforts, these women empowered local tribal communities. Their unique hexagonal house was set against a stunning mountain backdrop, open on all sides with tapestries serving as walls. Additionally, it featured an indoor pond.

Around the same period, I visited Mr. Krishna and Ms. Anuradha’s home in Sittilingi, the architects behind Thulir – an NGO focused on educating tribal groups. Remarkably, the couple and their students built the house, managing both plumbing and electrical installations. The students referred to the house as their pet project, applying theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.

Witnessing these remarkable homes inspired me to integrate indoor gardening into my living space.