December 15, 2023
As I journeyed through the sun-kissed lanes of Amritsar to visit Sri Harmander Sahib aka the Golden Temple, I was thrilled to be back in the city after three years and was looking forward to my stay at Ranjit’s SVAASA. Set amidst the embrace of nature, this sanctuary of tradition and tranquility beckoned me with promises of respite and rejuvenation.
The tale of SVAASA began in the year 2000, when the Mehra family embarked on a mission to breathe new life into their ancestral manor. Guided by a spirit of community and compassion, they opened their doors to the local populace. It was heartening to learn that some of the staff had been with them since the very beginning, their dedication and loyalty woven into the very fabric of the establishment. What truly struck me was SVAASA's commitment to social responsibility. By openly hiring widows and women from nearby villages, and supporting local charities and schools, SVAASA not only uplifted individuals but also enriched the community at large. Their recruitment practices, spanning the breadth of the country and embracing individuals from non-hospitality backgrounds, spoke volumes about their dedication to inclusivity and empowerment.
The Mehra family embodied resilience and determination in the face of adversity. After the passing of Ranjit Rattan Mehra, their eldest son, in 2000, his wife Rama returned to India to find their ancestral manor in a state of disrepair. Yet, amidst the dilapidation, she envisioned a sanctuary thus, SVAASA was born—a testament to the transformative power of love and determination.
As I arrived at the haveli, I was transported to a sepia tone era. The colonial home whispered tales of bygone eras, while the warmth of the sun bathed the courtyard in a golden hue. Each room and suite opened to terraces or verandahs, inviting the outdoors in and allowing guests to bask in the embrace of openness.
The interiors of SVAASA were a harmonious blend of colonial elegance and modern comforts. From the Reception Lounge, where ample corners beckoned one to relax, to the Empire Lounge, where one could lose oneself in the pages of a book, every space exuded an air of tranquility and warmth. One aspect that truly resonated with me was SVAASA's commitment to sustainability. Rainwater harvesting, solar water heating, and the use of chemical-free paint were just a few of the eco-conscious initiatives undertaken by the establishment. Moreover, their composting practices and farm-to-fork cuisine showcased a deep reverence for nature and its bounties.
The highlight of my stay was the culinary journey offered by SVAASA. From homemade preparations crafted from fruit trees and flowers to seasonal vegetables harvested from their kitchen gardens, every dish was a celebration of flavor and tradition. The Mehra Family Food Walk and the SVAASA Village Tour are just a few of the immersive experiences that guests can delve into, to experience the rich tapestry of Punjabi culture.
As I bid farewell to SVAASA, I carried with me a profound sense of gratitude for an establishment that seamlessly blended tradition, compassion, and sustainability. In the embrace of Ranjit's SVAASA, I found not just a retreat but a sanctuary—a place where the soul finds solace amidst the gentle whispers of nature.
Book on www.svaasa.com
Where to eat:
Giaani lassi (close to the darbar sahib)
Kahna sweets - chole puri and pinni
Tarachand near telephone exchange - paneer bhurji
Pehalwan Kulcha / kulcha land / Monu kulcha
Makhan fish - fish tikka / fry
Mohan singh mutton chaap
Giani tea stall - Kachori and Chai
Kesar da dhaba - mah ki dal, saag, makki roti, laccha paratha
Beera chicken must go and early dinner
Guru di hatti neat lohar gate - fruit cream
A1 kulfi next to Crystal
Gurdas ram Jalebi
Khubi halwaii Katra Ahluwalia - sooji halwa, Chandrakala, Parisa
Novelty sweets - gajar halwa
