Why We Cofounded Bilva Farms

A Journey of Trust, Values, and Shared Dreams

People often ask us: why did Sharath, our families, and I cofound Bilva Farms together? Why not venture into farming independently? These questions, while well-intentioned, often stem from a place of caution, shaped by stories of family disputes over land and property. Through this post, I want to share our reasons and experiences. Perhaps it will inspire more people to embrace co-farming.

1. Trust: The Cornerstone of Our Partnership

Every enduring relationship begins with trust. For us, trust means believing in each other’s integrity and commitment to avoid shortcuts. It’s a foundation that’s been built over three decades of friendship. While our journey hasn’t been without challenges, we’ve worked tirelessly to nurture and strengthen our bond.

Yes, we sometimes differ in opinions, but that’s natural. What matters is that we trust each other’s judgment and decisions. Without this trust, Bilva Farms wouldn’t exist. It’s the glue that binds our shared vision and drives us forward.

2. A Shared Value for “Experiences Over Things”

We come from a shared value: experiences matter more than things. For us, the joy of creating something from scratch — of planting seeds, watching them grow, and bearing fruit — far surpasses the joy of ownership. There’s magic in watching a sapling flourish and pride in sharing the harvest with family and friends. Their smiles and blessings make the journey worthwhile.

While these two form the foundation, we have learnt a lot from Mother Nature in the last four years.

Lessons from Farming: For Us & for the Next Generation

When our kids spend time on the farm, they absorb nature’s wisdom effortlessly.

Patience and Hard Work

Farming teaches that nothing happens overnight. It’s a vivid reminder of the age-old adage, “You reap what you sow.” These principles extend far beyond farming and are invaluable in any pursuit of excellence. I must add here that we have reaped much higher than what we’ve sown so far.

Sharing and Coexistence

Our farm is a shared space, not just for us but for the many creatures that call it home. From our cows (Gowri, Krishna, and Kapila) to Oreo, our ever-enthusiastic and brave Indie dog, and Bheema, our male sheep, every animal teaches us about coexistence and sharing. Their presence enriches our lives and instills a sense of gratitude. Of course our caretaker family that takes care of the well being of the farm is part of this shared ecosystem.

Building Bonds and Creating Memories

Our farm has become a haven for our friends and loved ones. Every plant, every fruit has a story to tell, and we take pride in sharing these stories. The food that is prepared at the farm, mostly sourced organically from the farm itself, adds a heavenly touch to our taste buds. Thanks to Nanda, my mother, mother in law & of course Sharath for all their culinary skills honed over the years.

Farming: A Parallel to Entrepreneurship

Farming, much like entrepreneurship, comes with its own set of challenges. It’s indeed a marathon journey. When you have a cofounder and the best friend who is equally driven and committed, the journey becomes rewarding and fun. Shared responsibilities not only lighten the load but also make the process more enjoyable.

Gratitude to Our Families

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our families. My wife, Nanda, and our children, Gargi and Amogh, have been pillars of strength, cheering us on every step of the way. They have been in the trenches as much as we’re. The same holds true for Sharath’s family. Our parents and in-laws have been our constant cheerleaders, fueling our adventure with their blessings.

Fulfilling Obligations

In Hindu philosophy, the concept of ऋण/Runa (debt or obligation) reminds us of our moral responsibilities to the world around us. These are not debts in the financial sense, but rather moral and spiritual obligations that individuals are believed to have towards various entities. Learn more about the Five Rinas

Farming has allowed us to honor our Bhuta ऋण (obligation to nature & environment) — by protecting plants, animals and the environment. It has helped us to move from “the joy of earning and spending” to the “joy of giving”, thereby setting an example for our children.

Reflections and the Road Ahead

The last four years have transformed us. Farming has made us more energetic, resilient, and giving. It has allowed us to slow down and cherish the small joys of life. I often wonder: could I have done this alone? The answer is always an emphatic NO.

It suits perfectly for our retirement, as they say! As for the future of Bilva Farms? Will the next generation carry forward these values? Only time will tell. For now, we’re doing our best to instill these lessons in them, trusting that the seeds we’ve planted will bear fruit in their own time.

Through this journey, we’ve learned that co-farming isn’t just about growing crops — it’s about growing together, as families, friends, and individuals. We hope our story inspires others to embark on similar adventures.