In the pursuit of wellness

Derived from the elements

Each of Swastik’s Vihars respond not only to the five elements, but also to the human experiences they shape. Piercing through the expansive lakeview, the Dhyan Vihar sits at the forefront, representing space. The 11,000 sq ft structure is designed to dissolve physical boundaries. As you enter, a tensile fabric roof more than 72 ft high bathes the meditation hall in gentle light. Manish explains, “The white fabric you see is actually translucent. You don’t need any artificial light inside during the daytime. Despite being quite opaque, when you go inside, you’ll see a very soothing, glare free light.” Its petal-like, circular form eliminates corners, embracing the infinite.

Drifting gently into Ayu Vihar, air is the guiding element here. The architecture mimics the curve of a peacock feather. Existing trees are left untouched; instead, they’re woven into the form, where courtyards create microclimates and garden paths pose as a therapeutic interlude.

Each guest at Swastik is handed a Dinacharya after a consultation with the residing Ayurvedic doctors and practitioners here. The layout serves function and flow: rooms for therapy, rest and recovery form a loose embrace around a central court. Experience Ayurvedic treatments, learn more about Naturopathy or even Western and alternative healing sciences — Ayu Vihar’s fluid structure carries you from one juncture to another.

Then there’s Anand Vihar, where fire takes root in the earth. The petal-like roof structure crowns the central auditorium, designed to ‘ignite’ both events and energy. Stairwells act like vertical veins, pulling in sunlight from above. It’s a place for movement: physical, social and spiritual, anchored by views of Khadakwasla’s shimmering waters and the Sahyadri’s contours. It is here where guests meet for their daily sustenance: nourishing Satvik meals, whipped up by a team led by Chef Arvind Joshi. The delectable menu stands in defiance of common misconceptions held against healthy food. At Anand Vihar, each meal course is a bevy of enriching nutrients and diverse flavours: because even your highest self deserves to indulge in dessert!

How materials support the immaterial

Material innovation, more than striking architectural forms, lies at the very core of Swastik. And nowhere does that ring more true than the Sukh Vihar, a guha-like sanctuary. Is the space inspired by tales of yogis who’d often meditate in caves? Manish clarifies, “I wanted to create the same experience here as what you would feel when you were in your mother’s womb. That this is the most secure, the most safe and loving place.” True to his words, the space’s rounded corners, lack for doors in favour of curtains: a choice that’s permeable by light, by air, invokes the same feeling. As Manish affirms, It disconnects you from your boxed in, industrial day-to-day life, returning you back to mother nature’s womb. Tiny details ground you to the earth: such as the showers, cladded with natural stone flooring in a petal-like formation.

Each minute detail rings clear with the same vision: at Swastik, you’re meant to return back to yourself. To the elements that shaped you, right amidst the lap of nature. Here, the architecture doesn’t just shelter. It nurtures, offering the space and stillness needed to reset, realign, and begin again — one soulful day at a time.

Read more: Heal your mind, body and soul at 12 off-beat wellness retreats in India and around the world