Himani Shivpuri, beloved for her role as Katori Amma in &TV’s Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, is not only a renowned actress but also a compassionate individual with strong ties to her roots. Recently, she took a significant step to give back to her homeland by adopting her paternal village, Bhatwadi, located in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district, with the support of the Pravasi Uttarakhandi Council. Her goal is to revitalise the village and create sustainable opportunities, particularly as many young people have moved to cities in search of work, leaving behind an aging population, including many elderly women. The veteran actor’s efforts reflect her deep commitment to development, sustainability, and preserving the heritage of her beloved Bhatwadi.
Speaking about this meaningful initiative, Himani Shivpuri, also known as Katori Amma, shared, “Bhatwadi holds a special place in my heart. It is not just my paternal village but also the canvas for many of my childhood memories. It saddens me to see the village lose its vibrancy as young people leave in search of better opportunities. Today, the village is primarily home to older residents who often feel disconnected and unsupported. The elderly possess so much knowledge and skill that could be used in areas like organic farming, handicrafts, or even running homestays for tourists. These ventures could offer them financial independence and a renewed sense of purpose. I believe it is my responsibility to step in and help make a difference. One of my main focuses is to revive agricultural practices, especially orange farming, which thrived in the village when I was younger. I have vivid memories of the lush orange orchards that once defined Bhatwadi, but sadly, they have disappeared over time. I plan to reintroduce orange farming and explore modern techniques to enhance both yield and quality, which could bring economic growth and employment to the village.”
Additionally, Himani aims to promote terrace farming, a traditional practice in the region. She explained, “Terrace farming is a sustainable way to utilize the hilly terrain while being environmentally friendly. I want to collaborate with agricultural experts to train villagers in advanced farming techniques and introduce crops suited to our climate and soil. This will not only generate new job opportunities but also encourage young people to return home. This is a collective effort, and the participation of the villagers is crucial. Together, we can transform Bhatwadi into a model village where tradition and progress go hand in hand. Our villages are the foundation of our culture and identity. By nurturing them, we nurture our future. I encourage everyone, especially the Pravasi Uttarakhandis, to consider how they can contribute to the development of their native villages. Together, we can restore the vitality and spirit of our communities, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.”
