From City Life to Sustainable Entrepreneurship: A Woman's Journey in Himachal Pradesh

A Bold Move Back to Roots

Munish Sood
Mandi

In a remarkable display of bravery and entrepreneurial spirit, a young woman from Himachal Pradesh has chosen to leave behind a secure career in bustling cities to establish a sustainable business in her hometown near Mandi.

Sanjana, who previously served as a physics professor in major urban centers like Bangalore and Delhi, opted for a different path by returning to the serene hills of Himachal with the aim of making a positive impact on society.

Years ago, while enjoying a stable professional life in the cities, Sanjana felt an increasing urge to reconnect with nature and her heritage in Himachal Pradesh. The allure of the mountains and her aspiration to contribute to the community ultimately led her to a transformative decision.

Alongside her husband, who is an engineer and MBA graduate, she made the bold choice to abandon the fast-paced urban lifestyle and relocate to their homeland near Mandi, a decision that took many by surprise.

“People often questioned our choice to leave a secure job and the comforts of city living,” Sanjana reflects. “However, sometimes aspirations outweigh fears, and we aimed to create something that links people with nature and the local community.”

Creating a Unique Dining Experience

This vision gave rise to 'The Royal Cascade,' a farm-to-table restaurant situated in Nerchowk that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, sustainability, and a lifestyle in harmony with nature. The establishment has gradually evolved into a distinctive destination in the area.

For Sanjana, entrepreneurship transcends mere business; it is about fostering a platform where individuals—particularly women—can connect, share experiences, and inspire one another.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, she hosted a special event named 'Nari Shakti Samaroh' at The Royal Cascade, uniting women from Mandi, Nerchowk, and Sundernagar to honor the strength, achievements, and contributions of women in society.

Empowering Women Through Knowledge

The event aimed to motivate women to step outside their comfort zones and explore opportunities in entrepreneurship, leadership, and community involvement.

It featured enlightening sessions led by notable women doctors from the region, who shared valuable insights on various aspects of women's health and well-being.

Dr. Reena, a gynecologist and obstetrician at the Medical College in Nerchowk, provided detailed information on women's health awareness, guiding participants through crucial life stages such as pre-menopausal, menopausal, and post-menopausal care.

Dr. Durgesh, an associate professor at the same institution, emphasized the significance of mental resilience, emotional stability, and overall wellness for women facing the challenges of contemporary life.

Additionally, Dr. Ibhya, a postgraduate student in Periodontology and Oral Implantology at Himachal Dental College, Sundernagar, delivered an engaging presentation on the importance of oral health in maintaining confidence and overall wellness.

Celebrating Women’s Achievements

The sessions received positive feedback from attendees, many of whom found the discussions both educational and inspiring.

During the event, special recognition was given to women entrepreneurs and professionals who have ventured beyond traditional roles and diligently worked to turn their ideas into reality.

As a token of appreciation, the guest speakers were presented with mementos to honor their contributions and efforts in raising awareness among women.

The celebration concluded on a festive note with music, dance, and an interactive community gathering where participants exchanged experiences and strengthened social connections. Guests later enjoyed a farm-fresh lunch at The Royal Cascade, embodying the restaurant’s commitment to locally sourced food and sustainable living.

A Vision for Empowerment

For Sanjana, the event was more than just a celebration; it served as a reminder of the incredible potential women possess when they uplift and inspire one another.

“Women are among the strongest pillars of society,” she stated. “When women take the initiative, embrace leadership, and chase their dreams, entire communities progress.”

Her journey—from teaching in urban classrooms to establishing a nature-focused venture in the hills—stands as a powerful testament to how courage, vision, and a connection to one’s roots can foster meaningful change.