Our Story
Our story is one of adventure, grit, and perseverance. In 2010 when we learned about permaculture for the first time, something told us that we needed to do this. Within a few weeks, we found land near Chandigarh (our home town) and got started! Even though we lived in Mumbai, and had busy corporate jobs, it didn’t deter us from pursuing a long-distance project. Instead, we found new energy and purpose in our lives, reading-researching-executing permaculture principles into action!
What began as a barren land gradually became a living ecosystem. We planted thousands of trees, harvested rainwater, rebuilt exhausted soils, welcomed wildlife back, and discovered that when nature is given the right conditions, it has an extraordinary ability to heal itself. In the process, the land transformed us as much as we transformed it.
Today, Aanandaa is our home. We live on the land in a climate-responsive house built from rammed earth, stone and lime - a home that reflects the same philosophy as the landscape around it: simple, regenerative and deeply connected to nature.
Aanandaa is led by Manisha and Agam, supported by a dedicated team that helps bring the vision of the farm to life. Manisha, a certified Permaculture Designer and Teacher, leads the design, nursery, plantations, seed bank and educational initiatives, while Agam oversees the infrastructure.
Our daughters, Radha and Ira, were also an important part of Aanandaa's journey. Radha helped build the project's social media presence, while Ira shaped many of our digital systems and the website that connects us with people around the world.
Over the years, Aanandaa has grown beyond being a farm. It has become a place where people come to learn, reconnect with nature, and imagine a different future. Everything we do is guided by one simple belief - that when we regenerate the land, we also regenerate ourselves. Our hope is that Aanandaa inspires others to create landscapes, homes and communities that leave the world richer than they found it.
We wanted a name that captured the emotion and feeling we got in this space. It was sheer bliss, and so we called it Aanandaa.
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Where Community Meets Fresh Food
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Guests Had to Say
"Aanandaa isn’t just a farm—it’s a philosophy in motion. It’s a living, breathing example of what life can look like when you follow your values. It’s a space that inspires, teaches, and gently nudges you to reimagine your own relationship with the planet."
Amit P
"If you’re curious about permaculture, sustainability, or just wish to experience a calm, nature-immersed retreat, Aanandaa is a must-visit. It’s not just a farm. It’s a living, breathing classroom and a soulful experience."
Vishal S
"Aanandaa stands as one of India's most exemplary case studies, addressing the fundamental human needs of food, shelter, and clothing within a defined boundary. Undoubtedly, it sets a benchmark in this field."