Please Welcome IRB Fellow, Chaitali Chaudhari!

Ecological Design, holistic thinking, architecture, permaculture and the spirit of place all inform and nourish Chaitali on this journey with IRB and beyond.

Hello, I’m Chaitali, hailing from Mumbai, India. I’m deeply passionate about ecological design and holistic thinking to foster abundance. I graduated as an architect from Mumbai University in 2019. During my graduation studies, I embarked on a transformative journey through my internship at Dharmalaya Institute for Compassionate Living(2017-18). Immersed in vernacular eco architecture, I discovered the profound intersection of architecture with compassion and well-being. Interacting with diverse individuals from various backgrounds broadened my perspective on life's possibilities. Nestled in the Himalayas, Dharmalaya nurtured my bond with nature, catalyzing my transition towards ecological living.

Following my graduation (2019-2022), I joined a 100 acres permaculture farm called Anantgram Farms in Andhra Pradesh as Permaculture and Architecture Design Associate. Amidst the COVID lockdown, I assumed multifaceted roles, from supervising agricultural activities to managing administrative tasks, fostering a resilient spirit and a deeper understanding of whole systems and ecological design.

Inspired from that experience, I applied to study Ecological Design Thinking at Schumacher College. Awaiting acceptance (2022), I managed The Odd Gumnut, a 1-acre permaculture farm in Maharashtra, as a farm manager. There, I oversaw food cultivation, facilitated natural building projects, and conducted educational farm tours.

These experiences have shaped my commitment to sustainable practices and holistic living, nudging me towards continued exploration and contribution to creating a harmonious relationship with the environment we are a part of.

During the past year (2022-23), I immersed myself in the profound study of Ecological Design Thinking at Schumacher College, pursuing my MA degree. This transformative journey has enriched my comprehension of both the world and my inner self, highlighting the interconnectedness of all ecological systems. Observing the stark disconnection between humans and nature prevalent in today's world, I recognize the urgent need for deep commitment from individuals to tackle global challenges and find our way back to seeing ourselves as being a part of nature once again. I firmly believe that genuine commitment arises from deep questioning, fueled by immersive experiences.

Throughout my academic pursuit, I have encountered numerous profound moments, each strengthening my bond with nature's innate harmony. These experiences, shaped by the unique characteristics of Schumacher College and its community, have ignited my passion for fostering deep connections between people and their environments. My dissertation, "Goethean Approach to Architecture," delves into the integration of ecological principles with architectural design, emphasizing the importance of embracing the spirit of place.

Now, as I embark on this fellowship, I aspire to translate my learnings into action, sharing my insights and facilitating transformative experiences for fellow designers and architects. Recognizing the pivotal role of education in cultivating a shift in mindset towards ecological consciousness, I envision establishing an online ecological school that will one day lead to a physical location for hybrid learning to disseminate knowledge and nurture nature connection and integration practices. Additionally, I aim to foster dialogue within the global ecological community through online conversations and multimedia platforms, amplifying diverse perspectives on ecological ideas.

Recently, I got married and moved from Mumbai back to Anantgram Farms, where my husband continues to work. Settling into my new life, I've found solace in the natural diversity around me, recharging and adjusting to my new role. This vibrant environment offers a fresh perspective on my work and life, and I look forward to deepening my connection with this land I am a part of and exploring new potentials during the fellowship.

Additionally, I am engaged in a meaningful project with the Radical Love film team. Radical Love is an inspiring and beautiful documentary about the life of Satish Kumar, who among his many achievements is co-founder of Schumacher College. (Be on the lookout for more details about this films release as IRB will be one of the promotional partners of the film as well).

This fellowship presents an invaluable opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and embark on a collective journey of exploration and growth. I am excited about the possibilities ahead and eager to contribute my experiences and insights to this dynamic community.

With warm regards and radical love,

Chaitali Chaudhari

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(PS: in one of the initial calls with Joe Culhane, Co-Founder & Project Director for the Institute of Relational Being, he drew cards for me from the The Wild Unknown Archetypes Deck that reveals ones present Mythical Journey. That session inspired me to weave my intentions into a story and paint. Below I share the story and painting with you.)

The Starborn’s journey.

In a land of imagination and aspiration, the Institute of Relational Being Fellowship flourished. A hopeful dreaming star was born, with her eyes aglow and heart brimming with anticipation, expressed her desires amongst other twinkling stars.

"I wish for this fellowship to be a gentle bridge over the faultlines," the star whispered, "leading me from the halls of Schumacher College into the realm of real-world challenges."

With tender musings, she spun dreams of Ecological design and practicality intertwined, seeking sustenance for both soul and livelihood.

"I hold within me seeds of ideas," she confessed, envisioning an online sanctuary similar to Schumacher College, where architects and designers could gather, nurturing their spirits.

As moonbeams gently kissed the waters, the star sought gnostic wisdom from distant shores, eager to converse with kindred spirits.

And in the quiet of the night, she imagined a gathering where Ecological minds converged, weaving tapestries of insight and understanding.

With hope as their guide, the star’s intentions soared, painting the world with wonder. And thus, the Institute of Relational Being Fellowship became a beacon of light, guiding seekers on their timeless journey toward infinite possibility.