Sobha Aranya: A Conscious Community at Karma Lakelands
Nestled in the heart of Gurgaon, Karma Lakelands is more than just a retreat; it is a celebration of nature, wellness, and sustainability. My second home in India, it inspires tranquillity and harmony, with every corner telling a story of ecological balance.
Discover five unique forest zones designed to celebrate biodiversity. Spot birds like the Bharadwaj (Indian Coucal), listen to the evening symphony of jackals, and learn about their ecological significance. Play a round of golf or savor an organic meal at one of five restaurants. The name Aranya reflects the soul of this sanctuary – a haven of well-being amidst Gurgaon’s concrete jungle. Derived from Sanskrit, ‘Aranya” means a‘forest, embodying the ethos of Sobha Aranya, a conscious community being developed by Sobha Ltd.
Sobha Aranya: Eco-Luxe Residences at Karma Lakelands
When Mr. Ashwani Khurana, the visionary behind Karma Lakelands, partnered with Sobha’s founder, Mr. PNC Menon, they united their shared vision of sustainability and luxury. This collaboration gave birth to Sobha Aranya, a fusion of resort living and urban convenience.
Spread over 31 acres within Karma Lakelands 270-acre Resort-Campus, these eco-luxe residences offer lifestyle amenities such as a celebration lawn, swimming pool, amphitheatre, jogging track, rainwater pond, and a clubhouse. With energy-efficient infrastructure and lush green spaces, Sobha Aranya exemplifies Karma Lakelands’ commitment to sustainable living, seamlessly blending opulence with nature.
A Model of Sustainability
Karma Lakelands redefines sustainable living by harmonising environmental stewardship, employee well-being and profitability. With 70% green cover across its 270-acre landscape, it is a testament to sustainable land use, featuring afforestation and ecological landscaping in collaboration with Peepal Baba of the Give Me Trees Trust.
Sustainability in Action
Zero-Waste Practices: Rainwater harvesting, on-site biowaste treatment, and composting create a closed-loop system aligned with circular economy principles. Single-use plastics are eliminated, making it a truly responsible haven.
Energy Efficiency: Solar panels in the parking areas provide shade while generating clean- green energy, advancing the goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Water Conservation: With waterless, plastic-free eco-urinal blocks introduced in partnership with Aspire Solutions, Karma Lakelands conserves millions of litres of water annually. Rainwater harvesting and collaborations with abutting communities ensure use of recycled water for irrigation without putting burden on the aquifers .
Local Ecosystems: Regenerative farming with farm animals, composting, and bee farming enhance biodiversity, pollination, and natural habitats.
Soundscape: Nature’s symphony replaces urban noise. Birds, peacocks, and jackals serenade visitors, while honking and firecrackers are strictly prohibited.
A Culture of Well-Being and High Performance
Karma Lakelands thrives on three guiding principles:
- Namaskar: Every visitor is greeted with a heartfelt Namaskar symbolising respect, mindfulness, and unity more than an SOP, it is a practice of reverence and inclusiveness.
- Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: The belief that the world is one interconnected family fosters unity and compassion.
- Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah: Striving for collective happiness and health through actions that promote well-being.
Daily practices like morning prayers instil acceptance and gratitude. Leadership meetings begin with laughter yoga, and staff and guests sing the national anthem at 5 PM under the 108-foot Indian Flag, a sign of unity and pride.
Programs like amazing Habit Adaptation encourage healthier routines, creating happier teams and delighted customers. This culture ensures employees feel valued, motivated, and engaged, fostering innovation and collaboration.
Recognition and Leadership
Diki Bhutia, Director of Environmental Sustainability, and Ashwani Khurana, Chief Eternal Optimist (CEO), were honoured with the prestigious SL25 Award by the Stewardship Asia Centre, Singapore. This award recognizes projects that redefine success by integrating societal and environmental impact into their mission.
A Blueprint for the Future
Karma Lakelands offers a visionary model of sustainability, inclusivity, and well-being. It stands as an inspiration for communities worldwide, demonstrating how mindful leadership can create thriving ecosystems for both humanity and nature.
Karma Lakelands: fact file
Location: Situated in Sector 80, NH 8, Gurugram, Karma Lakelands epitomizes the seamless blend of luxury and sustainability. Spanning 270 acres of lush landscapes, serene water bodies, meadows, and verdant lawns, it offers a tranquil escape from city life.
Amenities & Experiences:
- Klub Karma: A multifunctional lifestyle hub featuring a grand ballroom, event spaces, a gymnasium, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, badminton and pickleball courts, and diverse dining options.
- Golf Course: An award-winning 9-hole boutique course that delivers an 18-hole experience, set amidst breathtaking greenery.
Accommodation Options:
- Karma Villas: Premium residences with private lawns, perfect for weekend getaways and long-term stays.
- Suites: Spacious 900 sq. ft. suites blending contemporary luxury with nature.
- Karma Cottages: Cozy 350 sq. ft. cottages offering panoramic golf course views.
- Karma Chalets: A boutique hotel nestled in landscaped greens.
Culinary & Nature Experiences:
- Five Multi-Cuisine Restaurants
- Five Unique Forest Zones
Events & Weddings: From sprawling green lawns to elegant banquet halls, Karma Lakelands offers exquisite indoor and outdoor venues, ensuring unforgettable celebrations executed with precision and style.
Luxury Residences – Sobha Aranya: Nestled within Karma Lakelands, Sobha Aranya offers 3 & 4 BHK luxury residences with stunning forest and golf course views. Spread over 31 acres with five high-rise towers, amenities include a 6-lane Olympic-size pool, a 75,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, indoor sports courts, camping grounds, a celebration lawn, and a zen-themed hanging garden.
Booking & Information:
For reservations, contact +91 95 9994 4988 or email reservations@karmalakelands.com.
Visit karmalakelands.com for more details.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
The author is a Transformational Coach, Co-founder/Convener of Global Wellbeing Network, USA