Lakshmi Ashram, also known as Sarla Ashram, is a unique institution dedicated to the empowerment and education of women in the picturesque region of Kausani, Uttarakhand. Established in 1948 by Catherine Hillman, who later adopted the name Sarla Ben, the Ashram has played a crucial role in improving the lives of girls from surrounding villages. Situated amidst lush greenery and with the majestic Himalayan peaks as a backdrop, Lakshmi Ashram is a peaceful place that operates on the Gandhian principles of self-reliance and simplicity. Over the decades, it has become a beacon of hope for countless women and girls, offering them a chance at education, vocational training, and a better future.

In this article, we will delve into the history of Lakshmi Ashram, its core mission, and how it functions today. We will also explore its significance within the local community and the larger Gandhian movement, the role it plays in environmental conservation, and its international ties with organizations such as Action Village India (AVI).

History and Foundation of Lakshmi Ashram

Lakshmi Ashram was founded by Sarla Ben (Catherine Hillman), a British woman deeply inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of self-reliance and education for all. After working closely with Gandhi and adopting his ideologies, Sarla Ben chose to dedicate her life to the cause of women’s empowerment in rural India. She identified the pressing need for an institution that could provide education, skills, and moral values to women from remote villages, where traditional patriarchal norms had limited their opportunities.

In 1948, Sarla Ben established Lakshmi Ashram in Kausani, a small town in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand. Her goal was to create a space where women could live and learn together in a nurturing environment, free from societal restrictions. The Ashram was named after Lakshmi, symbolizing the Hindu goddess of prosperity and well-being, which aligned with Sarla Ben’s vision of holistic growth and empowerment.

The Philosophy Behind Lakshmi Ashram

Lakshmi Ashram’s functioning is based on the Gandhian principles of sarvodaya (the welfare of all), swadeshi (self-sufficiency), and gram swaraj (village self-governance). Sarla Ben believed that the empowerment of women was essential for the overall development of rural communities, and that education was the most effective tool to achieve this.

The Ashram emphasizes simple living, high thinking, and promotes a lifestyle centered on self-sufficiency and harmony with nature. Agriculture, handicrafts, and other vocational skills are integral parts of the daily activities at the Ashram, reflecting Gandhi’s belief in dignity of labor and sustainable living.

The Ashram not only provides formal education but also imparts practical knowledge of farming, cooking, health care, and other essential life skills. This holistic approach ensures that the women who graduate from Lakshmi Ashram are not only educated but also equipped to lead independent and self-reliant lives.

The Role of Women’s Empowerment

At the heart of Lakshmi Ashram’s mission is the empowerment of women. The Ashram provides a safe space for women and girls, many of whom come from impoverished or marginalized communities, to learn, grow, and build their confidence.

Educational Initiatives

The Ashram offers formal education to girls who would otherwise have limited or no access to schooling. The curriculum includes basic subjects such as mathematics, science, and social studies, along with Gandhian studies that focus on moral values, simplicity, and non-violence. Students also engage in discussions about social issues, women’s rights, and the importance of education in bringing about positive change.

Vocational Training

In addition to formal education, the Ashram places a strong emphasis on vocational training. Girls are taught skills such as weaving, knitting, organic farming, cooking, and tailoring. These skills not only enable them to become financially independent but also help in sustaining the Ashram’s self-sufficient ecosystem. The products made by the women, such as handicrafts and organic produce, are often sold to generate income for the Ashram, contributing to its financial sustainability.

Leadership and Community Engagement

Lakshmi Ashram encourages its students to become leaders in their communities. Through leadership training and hands-on experience, the girls learn how to advocate for themselves and for the welfare of their villages. The Ashram has been instrumental in empowering women to take on leadership roles, whether in local governance, community service, or environmental conservation.

Many of the Ashram’s alumni have gone on to make significant contributions to their communities, whether by becoming teachers, social workers, or even local political leaders. Lakshmi Ashram’s influence extends beyond the individual, creating a ripple effect that uplifts entire communities.

The Ashram’s Daily Life: A Self-Sustained Community

Life at Lakshmi Ashram is simple yet fulfilling. The residents, including students and staff, live in harmony with nature and follow a daily routine that emphasizes discipline, hard work, and cooperation. The daily activities at the Ashram are designed not only to provide practical skills but also to instill a sense of responsibility and community spirit.

Farming and Organic Agriculture

Agriculture plays a significant role in the Ashram’s daily routine. The residents cultivate organic crops, which are used to feed the community. Farming activities help the students connect with the land and learn about sustainable agricultural practices. By practicing organic farming, the Ashram contributes to the preservation of the local environment and promotes the importance of eco-friendly practices.

Cooking and Household Chores

Each day, the residents take turns preparing meals for the community. The act of cooking is seen as a form of service, and it teaches the girls how to manage a household. The Ashram promotes the consumption of simple, nutritious meals made from locally grown produce, aligning with the Gandhian principle of self-reliance.

Education and Vocational Training

A significant portion of the day is dedicated to academic learning and vocational training. Classes are held in the morning and afternoon, covering both academic subjects and practical skills. The students also engage in discussions about social and environmental issues, which helps broaden their understanding of the world and their role in it.

Environmental Conservation and Social Work

The Ashram is actively involved in environmental conservation efforts, particularly in the preservation and regeneration of Uttarakhand’s forests and rivers. The residents participate in activities such as tree planting, water conservation, and waste management. Lakshmi Ashram has also been at the forefront of social movements, including efforts to reduce alcohol consumption and improve healthcare access in the surrounding villages.

Lakshmi Ashram’s Connection with Action Village India (AVI)

Lakshmi Ashram’s partnership with Action Village India (AVI) has been a vital part of its growth and outreach efforts. This partnership began in the mid-1990s when Elaine Morrison, a former AVI Management Committee member, spent time at the Ashram as a volunteer. Her experiences helped to solidify the connection between the Ashram and AVI, an organization that supports grassroots development initiatives in rural India.

Since then, Lakshmi Ashram has been a solidarity partner of AVI, which has provided financial support and facilitated international collaborations. In 2007, the Ashram hosted the AVI Partners Forum, bringing together activists, volunteers, and organizations dedicated to rural development in India. This partnership has strengthened the Ashram’s ability to continue its work in women’s empowerment, education, and environmental conservation.

Lakshmi Ashram’s Role in Environmental Preservation

One of the key initiatives undertaken by Lakshmi Ashram is environmental conservation. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, the Ashram is deeply connected to the natural surroundings. Over the years, it has taken a proactive role in promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about the importance of preserving the environment.

Preservation and Regeneration of Forests

Deforestation has been a significant issue in the Uttarakhand region, leading to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and reduced water availability. Lakshmi Ashram has been actively involved in efforts to regenerate forests and promote afforestation. The students and staff participate in tree-planting drives and educate local communities about the importance of maintaining the region’s forest cover.

Water Conservation

Water scarcity is another pressing issue in Uttarakhand, particularly in the dry summer months. The Ashram has been at the forefront of water conservation efforts, promoting rainwater harvesting and educating villagers about sustainable water management practices. These efforts have helped improve water availability for both the Ashram and the surrounding villages.

Organic Farming and Sustainable Agriculture

Lakshmi Ashram promotes organic farming as a sustainable alternative to conventional agricultural practices. By avoiding the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, the Ashram contributes to the health of the soil and surrounding ecosystem. The organic crops grown at the Ashram are not only used to feed the residents but also serve as an example of how sustainable farming practices can be implemented in the region.

Social Work and Community Development

Lakshmi Ashram’s influence extends far beyond its walls. The Ashram has been an active participant in various social and community development initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for people in the surrounding villages.

Alcohol Prohibition

One of the key social issues that Lakshmi Ashram has addressed is alcohol abuse. Alcohol consumption has been a major problem in many rural areas of Uttarakhand, leading to social and economic issues such as domestic violence, poverty, and health problems. The Ashram has been at the forefront of campaigns to reduce alcohol consumption in local communities, educating people about the dangers of alcohol abuse and advocating for prohibition.

Healthcare and Hygiene

The Ashram also works to improve healthcare access and promote better hygiene practices in the villages. Through health camps and awareness programs, the Ashram provides essential healthcare services and educates people about basic hygiene, nutrition, and preventive healthcare.

How to Visit Lakshmi Ashram

Lakshmi Ashram, located near Kausani in Uttarakhand, is a peaceful retreat dedicated to women’s empowerment and education. If you’re planning to visit this unique institution, it’s easily accessible from Kausani’s main town area. The Ashram is just 1 km from the Kausani bus stand, making it a convenient stop for visitors.

To reach Kausani, the nearest railway station is Kathgodam, approximately 140 km away. From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kausani, which offers scenic views of the Himalayan foothills. The closest airport is Pantnagar Airport, around 177 km from Kausani, and private taxis are readily available.