A Shared Vision
Savji Dholakia, a renowned name in the diamond industry and founder of Hare Krishna Exports, has established an unparalleled family residence on a vast
50-acre property in Surat. This estate is not merely a dwelling but a meticulously planned sanctuary designed to accommodate his entire joint family, comprising 64 members spanning multiple generations. The overarching philosophy behind its creation was to foster an environment where the entire family could coexist, work, and thrive together seamlessly, eliminating any desire for division. This vision materialized through the construction of separate living quarters for each family unit, ingeniously interconnected by communal spaces. Central gathering areas, an expansive clubhouse-style living room, and shared dining facilities are integral to the estate's design, ensuring that togetherness is woven into the very fabric of the home. Dholakia's conviction in building this collective empire is evident, with a significant investment of 200 crores underscoring his commitment to his brothers and their shared legacy.
Nature's Embrace
A defining characteristic of the Dholakia estate is its overwhelming integration with nature, highlighted by an astonishing plantation of 1.5 lakh trees across the property. Dholakia himself equates his name, 'Dholakia,' with 'forest,' emphasizing his deep connection to nature and the estate's immersion within a verdant landscape. Further enhancing this natural abundance is a dedicated Ayurvedic garden, cultivated to supply fresh produce for the family's daily meals, salads, and medicinal preparations. While the majority of the flora comprises indigenous Indian seeds, a notable exception includes 15,000 trees imported from China, sourced due to their unavailability locally. Dholakia maintains a hands-on approach to managing this green paradise, dedicating his mornings from 7 am to 11 am to walking the grounds, collaborating with laborers, and overseeing horticultural plans, making it an integral part of his daily routine.
Leisure and Spirituality
The estate boasts a comprehensive sports complex catering to various recreational activities, including dedicated facilities for pickleball, volleyball, and tennis, alongside a fully equipped gymnasium. To foster shared experiences, a home theatre serves as a communal space where the entire family convenes to enjoy cricket matches and other television programs together. Despite his demanding schedule, Dholakia, who dedicates 18 hours a day to his work and likens his lifestyle to that of a laborer, does not personally utilize the gym facilities. At the spiritual heart of the estate lies a serene meditation temple, housing an idol of Lord Krishna. This sacred space is a focal point for the family, with members gathering for prayer sessions both in the morning and the evening, followed by a communal dinner. Dholakia finds solace and inspiration in meditation, using it as a tool to navigate challenges and discover innovative solutions when faced with adversity.
Personal Touches
The tour of Savji Dholakia's residence also revealed intimate aspects of his personal life and treasured memories. He offered guests a unique beverage, a carefully brewed concoction of roasted fenugreek, which he describes as having no adverse effects and contributing positively to national health and agriculture. Among his cherished possessions are vintage vehicles, including his first Luna and a 1980s model car, one of the initial three he gifted to employees in 1995 for ₹52,000, each adorned with the Indian flag. His personal vehicle bears the license plate '007,' a nod to James Bond, suggested by his son. These personal artifacts offer a glimpse into his journey and his philosophy of sharing prosperity, a sentiment reinforced by the inscription of the Indian flag on every car gifted to his employees.
