Introduction
In the rural landscape of Maharashtra, a unique vision has transformed ancestral farmland into a thriving farmstay destination. This story follows how a journalist’s dream, inspired by family roots and nurtured by a professional chef’s passion, became Ayra Farms—a harmonious blend of nature, tradition, and sustainable living.
A Dream Takes Root
In 2014, Rajan Chaughule, a journalist from Mumbai, stood on his family’s ancestral land in Guhagar, Maharashtra. He dreamed, “One day, I will build a farmhouse here.” Many people laughed at this idea, considering it wishful thinking. After all, old properties are often left in ruins across India. But Rajan believed in its potential.
From Vision to Reality: Ayra Farms
Today, Ayra Farms is a farmstay located six hours from Mumbai. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts, featuring cottages opening into lush gardens and hiking trails. Rajan’s daughter, Noopur Chaughule, a professional chef, notes that the family’s journey to create this haven has been full of challenges but rewarding every step of the way.
The Connection to Ancestral Roots
Rajan’s journalism career was flourishing, yet he often escaped the hectic city to visit this land. The place held deep significance—it was where his grandfather grew up and where his great-grandfather was the zamindar, or landowner. Noopur shares that the land is over 50 years old. During his childhood, Rajan spent summer holidays in the village, and the land continually called him back despite his busy city life.
Building a New Home
In 2014, Rajan took action by planting new trees and clearing overgrown plants while preserving existing nature. He began constructing a home, initially planning it as a vacation retreat.
However, Noopur’s mother, Sadhana, envisioned a bigger change—she wished for the family to live here full-time. Rajan recalls, “She made us more aware and brought us together as a family.” They decided to leave their city jobs to reside in Guhagar. The local community’s encouragement towards sustainable living also influenced their decision.
Life on the Farm
Rajan and Sadhana now reside in the peaceful village of Guhagar. Meanwhile, Noopur, who had been working in Toronto, stayed longer than planned during the 2020 COVID lockdown while visiting her parents. She gave birth to her daughter during this time.
Noopur reflects on those years as eye-opening. Witnessing her child grow surrounded by nature helped her recognize her true purpose: to create something meaningful on this land and protect it.
Ayra Farms Opens Its Doors
Ayra Farms spans four and a half acres, featuring two cottages, a tent area, a cowshed, and a kitchen garden. The garden produces vegetables including cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, chillies, pumpkins, and cucumbers.
The farmstay currently accommodates four adults at Rs 5,000 per night. Guests enjoy homemade meals crafted with seasonal ingredients. The menu rotates every three months and incorporates influences from Noopur’s time in Toronto, her mother’s cooking, and recipes from a local Maharashtrian cook. Signature dishes include Kerala stew with grilled chicken, roasted sweet potato, grilled fish with chimichurri sauce, oyster curry, steamed yogurt, crab curry, and prawn pulao.
“Creating a space that intertwines family heritage, sustainable farming, and culinary artistry has brought new life to this ancestral land,” says Noopur.
Designing for Nature
The farm is thoughtfully designed to benefit from Guhagar’s heavy monsoon rains. The rooms have high ceilings to maintain fresh, cool air. Noopur envisions future expansions including eco-friendly homes using local materials, alongside a community kitchen, yoga center, and workshop—initiatives she believes will thrive.
Supporting the Community
Ayra Farms is part of a village project that includes a dam to improve water levels. Noopur notes, “The groundwater is literally blue!” The farm’s kitchen garden, organic cultivation, and flower beds embody a sustainable home.
A Child Growing with Nature
Noopur enjoys watching her daughter, Ayra, grow up amidst animals and nature. Ayra plays with cows, uses natural colors for drawing instead of chalk, and explores the outdoors daily. The farm offers endless opportunities for discovery.
A Proud Grandfather
Rajan reflects on the journey with pride. He never expected Noopur to develop such dedication to the project. He treasures the joy Ayra brings, running around the farm, feeding cows, laughing, and drawing.
As he states, “Creating something that benefits not just us but future generations feels wonderful.”
Finding Peace in Nature
Each day, Rajan enjoys sitting near the water tank atop the highest point of their land. Regardless of the time, he appreciates the spectacular views and often reflects quietly as the clouds drift by.
