Blog

September 03, 2024

Maachli the eco-friendly Farmstay in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra offers the luxury of staying close to nature, in a lovely tropical forest, away from all the hustle bustle of the city life. Inspired by cherished childhood memories and a profound connection to nature, Maachli was founded by Mr. Pravin Samant, being a son of the soil, he has his own mango, coconut, betel nuts, and spice plantation. He has ensured that no tree is cut while selecting a place to build cottages. He has strong eco-friendly measures that contribute to sustainable tourism and responsible tourism.

The name of our homestay is derived from the word ‘Maachli’, a term for the huts made by a farmer to protect the farm. Maachli gives you the opportunity to unwind in the lap of nature! Engage in the melodious chirping of the birds, far more soothing than the blaring horns on the streets or immerse in the line of the various plant and flower varieties much soothing than the long traffic lines! In an exclusive, interview with Maachli Farmstay founder Mr. Pravin Samant offers a fascinating insight into his pioneering efforts in sustainable tourism and community empowerment through eco-friendly hospitality.

 

1. Can you elaborate on the concept of Maachli?

A: The term "Maachli" refers to traditional farm huts built by farmers to protect their crops and provide shelter. Inspired by our own cherished childhood memories, we've recreated these Maachlis, each named after a constellation representing the season's peak rainfall. I envisioned Maachli as a retreat to reconnect people with nature's abundance. Initially a retirement plan, Maachli evolved into a sustainable tourism venture, focusing on eco-friendliness, local culture, and community engagement.

2. Could you walk us through the unique architectural features and accommodation options at Maachli Farmstay, and how they contribute to the overall experience of connecting guests with nature and local culture?

Our cottages are conceptualized as Maachli, which is a term for the huts made by a farmer in the farm to protect the farm and it produces and for the rest. Our Maachli cottage are named after the constellation that witnesses maximum rainfall of the season. The very thought is “Let the guests indulge in abundance!

We have adopted the Vernacular Architectural style that is designed based on local needs, availability of construction materials, and reflecting local traditions. Maachli also has an innovative feature of Cross Ventilation. The cottage also has a stainless steel net set up on all 4 sides (front, behind, and both sides) the air in the bottom goes up as the structure is very tall and the same is replaced by the fresh air from both sides. This process creates a pleasant channel of the air within the cottage, each cottage enjoys a fresh and cool ambience because of the dense plantation and a water stream within the farm.

We at Maachli have focused on minimalist architecture and tropical modernism. Our cottages are based on minimalism. We have not cut even a single tree while making the cottages. The cottage is ideally meant for 2 people, equipped with minimum required furniture and walls yet absolutely spacious, airy and supreme in comfort. The whole idea is dedicated to the tropical modernism. The concept of Tropical Modernism is known for its spaciousness, increased ventilation, a focus on local resources, and building materials with cooling factors.

Maachli gives you the chance to spend time with nature. Also, these features are also a cherry on the cake!

1. Informal Hospitality
2. Laid back Holiday
3. Hidden Gateway
4. Microclimate

MAACHLI FARM STAY COTTAGE

 

3: Could you elaborate on the unique flavours and culinary traditions of Saraswat cuisine showcased at Maachli Farmstay, and how it contributes to the overall guest experience?

A. Mrs. Priya Samant, one of the owners and hosts churns out day in and out, to offer delectable Saraswat cuisine to the guests. She strives hard to revive the old forgotten recipes of Saraswat cuisine. The ingredients, methods, fresh spices from the garden, the understanding of the science of storage and the chemistry of fire and earthen pots is altogether an experience for the visitors who love food. The menu is designed keeping in mind its ethnicity, medicinal value, nutritional value and natural diet. In our dining area called ‘Pavhner’, food is served on leaf plates. Earthen pots are used to serve food. We serve both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food with the best combinations considering the availability of the same. All the vegetables served here are organic and grown in the village itself. The Chool (mud-stove) is used to cook food which imparts a distinct flavour to the food.

MAACHALI CUISINE:  SARASWAT CUISINE

 

4. How does Maachli contribute to environmental sustainability, particularly in terms of water conservation?

A: Maachli also supports water conservation. It has set an example by experimenting with a small temporary dam on the stream which helps in the increase of water retention level of the soil. It has boosted the water level of the wells nearby. The water body also enhances ecological treasure as it attracts different species of birds, river otters and fish. These water conservation efforts have helped the plantations for all seasons as the nearby plantations within an area of 1 km upstream also are very much benefited.

5. What role does Maachli play in empowering local communities, particularly women and artisans?

A: Maachli has a role in women's empowerment. We have provided opportunities to the local women and artisans according to their skills. 90% of the total staff is comprised of women Maachli has transformed the livelihoods of locals, especially women, by providing stable employment and fostering confidence and self-esteem. Pottery classes and tribal art exhibitions not only preserve these fading traditions but also provide income opportunities, by valuing and promoting local culture. Maachli enhances community pride and fosters economic resilience.

MAACHLI FARMSTAY: EMPOWERING LOCAL CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

 

6. Can you discuss the impact of Maachli on the local economy, including its effects on employment, local businesses, and agricultural practices?

A: Maachli's impact on the local economy is transformative, providing employment opportunities, by supporting local businesses and promoting traditional agricultural practices, it revitalizes the rural economy. Maachli has made a difference in the micro economy of the village. There is a remarkable growth in the daily requirement of grocery, vegetables, fruits, and fish and there is a healthy competition among the local suppliers to supply the best. Further, we have built a bridge made up of betel plant trunks over the rivulet. This has bridged the gap in the village and brought people closer.

 

7. Could you share specific examples of how Maachli has enhanced biodiversity and ecological conservation in its surroundings?

A: Maachli's water conservation efforts, tree plantation initiatives, and support for local flora and fauna have significantly enhanced biodiversity and ecological conservation in the region, by preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable practices, Maachli contributes to the long-term health of the ecosystem.

PLANTATIONS AT MAACHLI FARMSTAY

 

8. What measures does Maachli take to minimize its environmental footprint, such as reducing plastic usage and conserving energy?

A: Maachli implements various measures to minimize its environmental footprint, including utilizing solar energy, decomposing waste for composting, and restricting plastic usage by prioritizing sustainability in its operations, Maachli sets a benchmark for eco-friendly tourism practices.

 

9. How has Maachli inspired and influenced other entrepreneurs and tourism enthusiasts in the region?

A: Maachli serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and tourism enthusiasts, encouraging them to adopt sustainable practices and prioritize community engagement by showcasing the benefits of responsible tourism. Maachli inspires others to create positive change in their communities and further inspires tourism enthusiasts to understand the theme and venture. Many architects and students have visited Maachli and we feel happy, privileged and honoured to share our experience and knowledge.

 

 

10. How does Maachli engage with visitors to raise awareness about responsible tourism practices and the importance of preserving natural bio diversity and encouraging community tourism?

A: Maachli engages visitors through experiential activities like agricultural practices, pottery classes, and nature walks, raising awareness about responsible tourism practices by showcasing the beauty of local culture and biodiversity, Maachli inspires guests to become stewards of environmental and cultural preservation.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Maachli Farm Stay exemplifies the transformative power of responsible tourism, fostering economic growth, empowering communities, and preserving natural and cultural heritage, as a beacon of sustainability and community engagement, Maachli sets a precedent for a more ethical and harmonious approach to tourism worldwide.

 

MAACHALI FARM STAY

Website: https://maachli.in/

Email: prathamesh.samant@maachli.in

Connect: Prathamesh Samant: +91 9637333284 (What Sapp inquiry)

Address: Ishavasyam, Manjardewadi, At Post- Parule, Tal- Vengurla, Dist- Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, India. Pin code- 416523.