Our Story
A Journey of Conservation & Community
Our Story
Nestled between Bandhavgarh and Panna National Parks, Maharajpur Garhi stands as a testament to our commitment to conservation and sustainable development. As part of Dehaat Wildscapes, we're pioneering an initiative to restore and preserve the rich biodiversity of the Vindhiyan plateau through meaningful social investments.
Our vision extends beyond traditional hospitality - we're creating a model where tourism serves as a catalyst for conservation, sustainable agriculture, and community development. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern practices, we're nurturing food forests, promoting sustainable farming, and building natural capital for future generations.
A proud initiative by Dehaat, committed to sustainable development and community empowerment.
Our Partners
Meet the visionaries behind Dehaat Wildscapes, bringing together decades of experience in conservation, innovation, and sustainable development
Mr. Shyamendra Singh
Pioneer in Wildlife Tourism & Conservation
As the grandson of The Maharaja of Nagod, Mr. Shyamendra Singh established Ken River Lodge in 1986, pioneering wildlife tourism in India. His passion for wildlife and conservation led to the creation of Pugdundee Safaris. Despite facing natural challenges, including major floods in 1992, 2005, and 2016, the lodge has been rebuilt each time with unwavering dedication.
Visionary Leadership
Under his guidance, the lodge has evolved into a 50-acre forested estate, just 2 km from the Madla gate of Panna Tiger Reserve. The property features premium accommodations including river-facing stilted cottages, family cottages, and a unique villa, all designed to provide an authentic jungle experience.
Varun Chamadiya
Founder of Proactive 'I' & Co-Founder of Dehaat Wildscapes
An educator, innovator, scientist, chef, and artist, Varun is dedicated to transforming lives through creativity, sustainability, and personal development. As the founder of Proactive 'I,' he pioneered the 8 Building Blocks framework, guiding individuals toward self-discovery and innovation.
Vision & Innovation
In Dehaat Wildscapes, Varun partners with Shyamendra Singh to drive rural transformation through sustainable agriculture, community development, and rural tourism. His lab, UZOOBAZEBAKA, embodies his ethos: "I don't know how, but I will."
"The possibility you expressed by fulfilling millions of lives, every moment of your life lived, you went on the uncharted to create more that will serve humanity for generations to come."
- Varun's Future Obituary
Vision & Values
At Maharajpur Garhi, we envision a future where tourism becomes a powerful force for conservation and community development. Our values guide us in creating sustainable pathways that benefit both nature and people.
Conservation Through Tourism
We believe in harnessing responsible tourism as a powerful tool for conservation. By creating meaningful experiences that connect people with nature, we're building sustainable pathways for environmental preservation while supporting local communities.
Responsible natural & rural tourism as a tool for conservation
Good practice of sustainable agriculture
Sustainable Development
Our approach integrates multiple aspects of sustainability - from agriculture to community development. We're creating a model that demonstrates how businesses can thrive while nurturing both the environment and local communities.
Growing food forests for biodiversity and sustainability
Building and preserving natural capital for future generations
Community Empowerment
We facilitate the convergence of government schemes, private business networks, education, and health systems to create sustainable employment opportunities and foster prosperity in our communities.
Government Integration
Leveraging government schemes for community benefit
Business Networks
Creating sustainable business opportunities
Education & Health
Improving access to essential services
Rural Entrepreneurship
We're fostering rural entrepreneurship by creating innovative businesses that add value to local resources while preserving traditional knowledge and promoting sustainable practices.
Artisanal Cheese & Wine
Developing local cheese-making and wine production facilities that combine traditional methods with modern techniques, creating unique regional products.
Mahua Innovation Hub
Revolutionizing the use of Mahua through innovative product development, creating sustainable livelihoods while preserving traditional knowledge.
Value-Added Products
Transforming local raw materials into high-value products through sustainable processing and innovative packaging solutions.
"Our entrepreneurial initiatives aim to create a sustainable ecosystem where traditional knowledge meets modern innovation, generating prosperity for local communities while preserving our natural heritage."