A Family's Vision
Savji Dholakia, renowned as India's 'Diamond King' and the visionary behind Hari Krishna Exports, has created an unparalleled living experience on his
50-acre estate in Surat. This vast property isn't merely a residence; it's a meticulously designed ecosystem where his entire joint family, comprising 64 members across multiple generations, thrives together. Dholakia, who began his journey in Surat with mere ₹12, conceived this estate as a testament to his core belief that collective living and shared prosperity are paramount. The design philosophy prioritizes unity, with distinct living spaces for each family unit intentionally integrated with communal areas like a grand living space and dining hall to foster constant connection and a strong sense of belonging. This architectural marvel underscores Dholakia's commitment to family bonds, a stark contrast to individualistic living, and serves as a 'temple' of shared life and achievement.
Nature's Embrace
The estate is a verdant paradise, dominated by an astounding 1.5 lakh trees that transform the landscape into a lush, private forest, embodying Dholakia's familial name which translates to 'forest'. This dedication to nature extends to a vibrant Ayurvedic garden, cultivating a variety of plants used daily for meals and herbal remedies, ensuring a connection to natural wellness. Some unique trees, including 15,000 imported from China, were strategically planted to enhance the biodiversity and aesthetic of the grounds. Dholakia actively participates in the estate's upkeep, spending his mornings supervising and planning with the groundskeepers, demonstrating a hands-on approach to maintaining this ecological sanctuary. The main living areas are thoughtfully designed to be open on all sides, allowing natural light and fresh air to permeate, seamlessly merging the interior spaces with the surrounding natural beauty.
Recreation and Reflection
Beyond its natural beauty, the 50-acre estate boasts a comprehensive sports complex catering to diverse recreational interests. This facility includes dedicated areas for pickleball, volleyball, and tennis, alongside a well-equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts. Furthermore, a private home theatre serves as a central hub for family entertainment, where all 64 members gather to enjoy cricket matches and films together, reinforcing communal bonds. Despite his demanding schedule, Dholakia himself prioritizes activity through his 18-hour workdays, which he likens to labour, eschewing traditional gym workouts. At the spiritual heart of the estate lies a serene meditation temple, housing an idol of Lord Krishna. This sacred space is a daily gathering point for the family for morning and evening prayers, fostering a sense of peace and spiritual connection before they convene for their communal dinner.
Personal Touches
The estate tour also revealed glimpses into Savji Dholakia's personal life and cherished memories, showcasing his unique lifestyle choices and sentimental attachments. He serves guests a distinctive beverage, not coffee, but a brewed concoction of roasted fenugreek, celebrated for its health benefits and zero side effects. Displayed prominently are some of his most treasured possessions, including the very first Luna motorcycle he owned, and one of the original 800 cars gifted to employees in 1995, each bearing the Indian flag. His personal vehicle license plate, a gift from his son, reads '007,' a nod to the iconic James Bond character. These personal artifacts, alongside the unique fenugreek brew, paint a picture of a man who values both his past achievements and his forward-thinking, health-conscious lifestyle.
