Couple Embraces Sustainable Living: From City Jobs to Mud House Haven

Sudhakar and Noushadya's Inspiring Journey Towards Eco-Friendly Living in Tamil Nadu

In a heartwarming tale of urban escape and environmental consciousness, Sudhakar and Noushadya Iyer have traded their corporate lives for a sustainable oasis in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. Originally from Mumbai and Thanjavur, respectively, the couple met in Bengaluru and embarked on a quest for a simpler, greener lifestyle.

Their journey began with a three-month stint volunteering at an organic farm in Auroville, where they gained invaluable insights into sustainable living. Fueled by their newfound passion, they took the leap and purchased 11.5 acres of land near Sudhakar's father's village, Papanasam, in July 2018.

Their eco-friendly haven boasts a diverse farm forest, where they've revived a neglected coconut orchard and implemented innovative cultivation techniques like layering. Embracing a zero-waste lifestyle, they source 80% of their household food from their own kitchen garden and annual harvests.

Their commitment to sustainability extends to their living space—a 1,000 sq-ft mud house built with locally-sourced materials and traditional construction methods. From adobe bricks to lime whitewashing, every aspect of their home minimizes environmental impact.

But Sudhakar and Noushadya's journey doesn't stop at self-sufficiency. They share their surplus produce with their community, offering cold-pressed coconut oil, powdered herbs, and organic palm jaggery crafted from their farm's resources.

Through dedication, innovation, and a deep respect for nature, Sudhakar and Noushadya have crafted their own version of "happily ever after"—one rooted in harmony with the land and a commitment to sustainability.

Reference:

www.thebetterindia.com