Dharshini a 26-year-old MBA graduate from Jammu, always had a vision for her future. After completing her studies, she landed a job in London, a dream destination for many. For three years, she thrived in the fast-paced corporate world, working diligently and making a name for herself. Yet, despite her success, something always felt missing. Dharshini longed for a deeper connection with her roots and wanted to create something meaningful that aligned with her values.
In 2023, she decided to leave her corporate life behind and return to her hometown, Dudu-Basantgarh, a beautiful village nestled in the hills of Jammu, known for its scenic beauty and occasional snowfall in winter. Inspired by the natural environment and the potential of lavender farming, Dharshini set out to create something special. Lavender, known for its calming properties and high demand, was perfectly suited to the cool climate of Dudu-Basantgarh.
Without prior experience in farming, Dharshini took a leap of faith. She invested her savings into a small plot of land and began her lavender farming journey. The first year was full of challenges—learning the nuances of agriculture, understanding the soil, dealing with weather uncertainties, and managing the labor force. But Dharshini’s determination paid off. By the end of her first year, she had earned a remarkable 16 lakh rupees solely from the sale of lavender flowers.
Dharshini’s initiative didn’t just benefit her; it also had a positive impact on the local community, especially the women. As her lavender farm expanded, she provided employment opportunities to local women, empowering them to earn a steady income and support their families. This was not only a source of pride for Dharshini but also a way to contribute to the economic upliftment of her village.
But Dharshini’s vision didn’t stop there. Her lavender farm, with its picturesque beauty and the charm of occasional snowfall, began attracting tourists. People from nearby cities, and even travelers from farther away, started visiting her farm to bask in the soothing environment. Seeing the potential, Dharshini transformed her farm into a picnic spot, offering guided tours, lavender picking experiences, and spaces for relaxation. What started as an agricultural venture blossomed into a tourist destination, providing her with a steady stream of visitors and adding another income stream.
Today, Dharshini’s lavender farm in Dudu-Basantgarh is not only a thriving business but also a symbol of how passion, perseverance, and the courage to take risks can lead to fulfilling one’s dreams. She has become an inspiration to many young people in her community, showing them that success doesn’t always lie in big cities, but can be cultivated right in their hometowns with the right mindset and effort.
Her journey from London’s corporate world to the lavender fields of Dudu-Basantgarh is a powerful reminder that sometimes, going back to your roots can lead you to blossom in ways you never imagined.
