Uttarayan, celebrated in the Indian state of Gujarat as Makar Sankranti, is more than just a festival of kites and merriment. It carries profound spiritual significance deeply rooted in Hindu traditions .
About Pustak Ghar
Pustak Ghar is a community-driven project. An initiative where the books generally donated find a home with our partners in the nearest villages of Sasan Gir, Somnath region that spans 20 to 25 houses in each area, enriching lives in villages where agriculture and labour are at the heart of daily life. Open once a week, these book houses encourage knowledge-sharing and personal growth. Currently active in 13 villages, this initiative touches 206 community members, fostering collective empowerment through accessible knowledge.
Purpose
This initiative, inspired by our founder’s passion for literature, aims to empower communities through access to books. With the success of our initial Pustak Ghars, we are expanding to foster a reading culture in villages where livelihoods are centered around agriculture and animal husbandry. Villagers can borrow books weekly at times set by the community, enhancing knowledge through both religious and educational reading. Women often gather to exchange insights from the books, fostering shared learning, and the availability of books close to home encourages reading among all family members.
Inauguration on 12th Jan- commemoration of Swami Vivekananda Birthday
On 12th January, in commemoration of Swami Vivekananda’s birthday, we will inaugurate 11 Pustak Ghars across nearby villages, expanding the network of hosts and readers in these communities. This initiative is made possible through the generous donation made during the FAM visit with the builders.
Matla Undhiyu
Matla Undhiyu is a traditional Gujarati dish, commonly prepared for the festival of Makar Sankranti. This hearty, flavorful dish is made from a variety of seasonal vegetables, beans, and roots, slow-cooked with aromatic spices and herbs. Traditionally served in a “matla” (clay pot), it brings an earthy, authentic flavor that reflects the richness of local cuisine. As part of the inauguration of the 11 Pustak Ghars, Matla Undhiyu will be shared with the hosts in the nearby villages. This gesture not only celebrates the occasion but also fosters a sense of community and cultural appreciation. It aligns with the mission of bringing people together, nurturing connections, and honoring local traditions.
Back work
This initiative is managed by the community head, who collects books from the property. The head catalogues and organizes the books, maintains an inventory, and ensures they are rotated regularly (3 months) among the Pustak Ghars to provide everyone with access to diverse reading materials. This system ensures that the entire community benefits from a wide selection of books, promoting continued learning and shared knowledge across the villages.
WOODS AT SASAN GIR IS CELEBRATING UTTARAYAN AND LOHRI WITH AN EXCITING RETREAT
About Uttarayan Uttarayan, celebrated in the Indian state of Gujarat as Makar Sankranti, is more than just a festival of kites and merriment. It carries profound spiritual significance deeply rooted in Hindu traditions.
Dates: 13th & 14th January
Campaign: Uttarayan & Makar Sankranti with Regeneration
Concept: This Uttarayan, we honor the balance between earth and sky as a symbol of regeneration, reconnecting with the nostalgic simplicity of life. The earth grounds us in sustainable practices, reminding us of our timeless bond with nature, while the sky evokes the childhood wonder of limitless growth. By embracing these elements, we renew our commitment to a regenerative future, blending the wisdom of the past with new processes that allow nature and humanity to thrive together.
