VaanaVizha Diaries : September 2026

Vanya is turning five this January, while Vaanavil Farm Stay attracts visitors with stunning views of the Western Ghats. This September, the farm enjoyed sunny weather, occasional drizzles, and hopes for a good monsoon. The store features heritage rice varieties and many unique products.

Honey Frothing Up : Is it safe to consume?

This post addresses common feedback regarding honey sold at VaanaVizha, particularly frothing. It explains that froth indicates raw, unprocessed honey and is safe to consume if it doesn’t smell or taste sour. Tips for preventing fermentation include airtight storage and avoiding moisture. Raw honey, when properly cared for, retains its quality.

Kothamalli Samba cultivation at Vaanavil

Kothamalli Samba, a red rice cultivated at Vaanavil for three years, is named after coriander due to its grain’s appearance. The harvesting process involves traditional methods, local employment, and sustainable practices, with compost enhancing soil health. The rice is available for purchase online, highlighting heritage cultivation’s significance and labor intensity.

VaanaVizha diaries : August 2026

Noushadya’s Kitchen offers delicious community lunches featuring farm-fresh dishes. Partnering with local artisans, they introduce new millet snacks and improved rice bags. Celebrating six years at Vaanavil Farm, they highlight sustainable practices and eco-tourism opportunities. Recent farm events include a gathering for organic farmers and showcasing Bhoomi, their cob house.

How Palmyra became inseparable from Humans of Vaanavil

If you have been following us since the beginning of our journey, I am sure you must now come to share the fascination that we have for Palmyra. The photo blog below enlists the direct uses that we have been able to derive from this Kalpataru.  There are a few other ones that we couldn’t…

Chasing the Perseids: A Night on the Terrace at Blooming

Over two weeks of overcast skies led to a memorable night at Vaanavil Farm as the family sought to witness the Perseids meteor shower. Despite initial cloudiness, they enjoyed the spectacle from the terrace, sharing excitement over numerous meteors. Sudhakar reflects on fostering a connected, aware childhood for Vanya while promoting stargazing experiences at their farm stays.

What Vanya Doesn’t Miss by Not Going to School

Two questions come up every time we talk about homeschooling Vanya at the farm. Almost without fail, someone asks: what about socialization? And soon after: what about her 10th and 12th certificates? Both are fair questions. Here’s how we think about them.

Vaanavil & Vaanavizha Diaries : May and June 2026

May 2026 June 2026 As you might know, we intend to homeschool Vanya. She is now 4.5 years. She understands the concept of schools now – and she is curious about it because her cousins and some of her friends in our circles go to school. So our debates as a family is to convince…

Aleaf Farm: A Journey to Healthier Living

Ashika and Wasim founded Aleaf Farm in Ulundurpet to promote healthier living through natural farming. Starting on just 30 cents of land, they now cultivate five acres of diverse crops, focusing on heirloom varieties and nutrient-rich produce. Their mission is to share the benefits of naturally grown food and reconnect people with nature.