Curating A Green Legacy In Dungarpur
In the serene district of Dungarpur, Rajasthan, lives Sohan Kunwar, a woman who has turned her lifelong passion for gardening into a mission to promote sustainable living. Sohan Kunwar resides with her husband, Dr. Chandra Prakash Panwar, a well-respected homeopathic practitioner in the area. Despite her advancing years, Sohan Ji is far from slowing down; instead, she is nurturing a green revolution in her community.
Sohan’s love for gardening began in her childhood when she would assist her father in agricultural work. This early exposure to nature sowed the seeds of a lifelong passion for horticulture, which continues to thrive today. Her garden is a testament to her dedication, filled with a variety of flowers and plants that she lovingly cares for as if they were her own children.
Her husband, Dr. Panwar, fondly shares how Sohan never travels without her trusty pair of scissors and a bag. Whenever she comes across a plant or flower that catches her eye, she takes a cutting or even the entire plant home to add to her garden. Her enthusiasm doesn’t stop there; she often asks her neighbors for their kitchen waste, which she turns into rich, organic compost for her beloved plants.
Sohan Kunwar’s commitment to organic gardening extends beyond just planting; she has mastered the art of composting. In her own home, produces organic compost using the wet waste generated by her household. This valuable skill was learned through training from Narendra Sharma and Lakhan Panwar, experts from the FINISH Society, and by watching online tutorials from Prateek Mishra, a composting trainer based in Delhi.
At a stage in life where most people are content to retire and relax with their families, Sohan Kunwar is busier than ever. Her days are spent tending to her garden and producing organic compost, ensuring that her plants receive the best possible care. But her contributions go far beyond her own garden.
One of Sohan’s most remarkable traits is her willingness to share her knowledge with others. She frequently visits the homes of friends and relatives, teaching them how to make organic compost from their kitchen waste. She patiently explains the process, emphasizing the use of vegetable and fruit peels, coconut shells, and fallen leaves or branches, which are often considered waste but are actually valuable resources for composting.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. The FINISH Society team has recognized Sohan’s dedication and enthusiasm, seeing her as a beacon of inspiration in the community. She has become a local hero, not only for her gardening skills but for her tireless work in promoting environmental stewardship.
As she continues to share her knowledge and inspire others, Sohan Kunwar is leaving behind a legacy that will bloom for generations to come. Her life’s work is a powerful testament to the idea that it is never too late to make a difference, and that with a little effort, anyone can contribute to a healthier, greener world.