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Gram Samruddhi NavKumbh 2025: A Celebration of Sustainable Rural Development & Bhil Traditions in Jhabua

Jhabua – a land where culture breathes, traditions thrive, and community spirit binds people together like an unbreakable thread. If you've ever set foot in this vibrant tribal heartland, you know that it offers an experience unlike any other. The warmth of the Bhil community, their unwavering hospitality, and their deep-rooted connection with nature leave an indelible mark on every visitor. Villagers of Jhabua celebrating using the folk instruments during a previous Halma Program  And now, Jhabua is gearing up for something extraordinary—the Gram Samruddhi Navkumbh 2025 . Imagine being part of a movement where 5,000 grassroots social leaders from 900 villages of Jhabua and Alirajpur come together with 500 guests from across the country—students, researchers, bureaucrats, policymakers, and philanthropists—all uniting for one common goal: sustainable and holistic rural development. Why You Should Be at Gram Samruddhi NavKumbh 2025 Gram Samruddhi NavKumbh isn’t just a conference; it...

The joy of an unplanned night safari in Bandhavgarh!

Nestled in the lap of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh is a place that resonates with wilderness and wonder. Known for hosting the highest tiger population in the country, this destination has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. Last week, I finally got the opportunity to visit Bandhavgarh, albeit on a work trip. Despite a packed schedule, Bandhavgarh gifted us unforgettable experiences, creating cherished memories that will stay with me forever! A beautiful gond art at the wall of Vanraj Homestay, Rancha Village, Umaria A Cozy Retreat at MPT White Tiger Resort Our stay was at the charming MPT White Tiger Resort, Bandhavgarh, which felt like a warm embrace after a long day. From the back of the resort, I could see the Charan Ganga flowing gracefully, its clear waters glinting under the sun. It’s fascinating to think that this serene river originates deep within the Bandhavgarh forest, carrying with it whispers of the wild. Sitting by the river, I found a rare moment of pea...

The Heart of Hospitality: Lessons from Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh (Part 2)

When I first visited Jhabua, nestled in the vibrant heart of Madhya Pradesh, I was unprepared for the wave of warmth that greeted me. The Bhil community, with their rich cultural heritage and deep connection to their land, surprised me with their unparalleled humility and hospitality. Their love and acceptance for a stranger like me felt almost unreal, like stepping into a world far removed from the guarded interactions we’re so accustomed to in cities. At Maniya Bhai's Home in Bhajidungra Village, Jhabua As I returned for my second and third visits, this wasn’t just a fleeting experience. I came to realise that this sense of open-heartedness is deeply ingrained in the values of the Bhil community. It’s not just a gesture of politeness; it’s a way of life. The warmth and generosity they exhibit aren’t reserved for special occasions or specific individuals—they extend it to everyone, even a wandering stranger. In contrast, urban life teaches us to value personal space and boundaries...