Hi! My name is Shivani, and I am one of the co-founders of Peepal Farm.
Before we started Peepal Farm, I lived in the USA with Robin for about ten years, working with him on his e-commerce company. Once the company was established, I began my own blog where I worked with artists worldwide showcasing their artwork.
Peepal Farm was Robin's initiative. He is very strong-willed and determined, which made it easier for him to leave our previous life behind. It took me some time to adjust to the rural setting, where many of the comforts I was used to were missing. For the first several months, I traveled between Delhi and Dhanotu, torn between my life in Delhi with family, friends, yoga, meditation, and pottery groups, and the unknown life at Peepal Farm. I wasn't afraid to restart my life but was hesitant to rebuild without any support system.
In the beginning, I helped wherever needed. While Robin built the animal clinic, I did all sorts of odd jobs, from helping with construction to managing the kitchen and ensuring everyone was fed. With little help and only a couple of full-time employees, we had to do most tasks ourselves. It was tough, especially sleeping in a room without windows where rats would sometimes jump on my bed at night.
As our house neared completion, things became more comfortable, and we defined our roles. We hired more people and started delegating tasks. I found joy working with the village women, making handmade and vegan products to support our animal rescues. This project grew into a successful enterprise that now trains and employs women to make cruelty-free products. All funds go towards their salaries and our stray animal clinic.
Robin's dream gave me my life's purpose. I'm grateful to live a life filled with meaning, even though it's not always easy. When I married Robin, he showed me a different way of living, and with Peepal Farm he yet again showed me how one can one live a life filled with purpose.
If you are interesed, I shared my life story on YouTube in Hindi here.
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Reach out to me via email if you've any questions or suggestions. :)