A Bengaluru-based entrepreneur’s social media post about working remotely from a small village in Northeast India has gone viral, capturing attention for its portrayal of a calm, close-knit life far removed
from city pressures.
Saumya Saxena documented his 24-hour journey and shared it on X. The entrepreneur used four different modes of transport to reach the village, where community bonds are so strong that, as he noted, “everyone knows everyone.” Simply stepping outside often led to spontaneous tea or black coffee invitations, as locals recognised him as a guest.
The village, Saxena observed, functions with remarkable self-reliance. Most households have their own ponds, fishing is part of daily life, and families grow their own vegetables. Collective living shines during festivals, with villagers cooking together, men chopping vegetables, women managing the kitchen, and everyone taking turns to serve meals.
Encounters with wildlife are routine rather than alarming. Saxena recalled seeing a snake resting near a pond, which barely drew attention from residents. Describing the landscape and lifestyle, he called it “the Australia of India.”
What stood out further was the village’s connection to global pop culture. Football legend Lionel Messi enjoys near-iconic status, with some children named after him. Saxena also mentioned that a villager had reportedly paid Rs 10 lakh for a selfie with Messi during his visit to Kolkata.
Western music bands like Arctic Monkeys and popular shows such as Stranger Things are favourites among local children, highlighting a striking blend of rural simplicity and global influence.
As villagers curiously watched him work on his laptop, Saxena reflected that it was among the most fascinating first days he had experienced anywhere in years.
