What's it like to go back in time?
Quite likely, it was a unique experience. However, each individual will feel and think differently. Having restored an old classical rural home in Hedavi, Guhagar, Kokan, we had the pleasure of hosting a guest who lived part of their childhood in the house in the 80s.
The emotions and joys cannot be put into words, however, Neelima Deshpande comes very close to doing this artfully. She writes as copied below (paraphrased and abbreviated) -
In the realm of Vastu, certain dwellings transcend mere physical structures; they become an abode of Bhavbandha, the lovely memories. Hedvi's home is, to me, one such place where the tapestry of my cherished childhood unfolds. The timeless traditions and cultural values imbued within those walls continue to serve as guiding beacons, shaping the course of my present days.
A few years ago, during a visit to Hedvi, I sat in the courtyard for a while. The home then resembled a weathered tree, bearing the scars of time's relentless passage. Witnessing the erosion etched upon our Hedvi home's walls was a sad picture to my eyes. Then and there, I prayed for its renaissance – a fervent wish for it to stand once more in resplendent majesty.
From the depths of my heart, I extend gratitude for your unwavering dedication. It is through your sincere efforts that the withered tree has burgeoned anew. Special appreciation for both you and Pramod Kaka, whose arrangements paved the way for me my husband to once again reside within the embrace of that venerable home. The Narayan Utsav has breathed vitality into our beings, allowing us to relive the series of childhood memories amidst the embrace of Hedvi's familial embrace, receiving blessings from all loving people over there. This revitalization promises to sustain us for quite some time for sure, and when our batteries run low, rest assured, we shall return to seek recharge in that lovely Vastu.
The exceptional craftsmanship in restoring the antiquity of home while fashioning a resplendent, contemporary iteration deserves special appreciation for sure. The Jhopala, Aaram Khurchi, and Mazghar, adorned with only essential furnishings, retain an enchanting 'homely feel.' Prasad Dada and his wife Pooja, in their affectionate and wholehearted manner, attend to the finer details, such as tea and breakfast, completing the harmonious symphony of hospitality.
Once again, heartfelt congratulations on the decision to breathe new life into this venerable home. Read more from Neelima Deshpande's Facebook page below.
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