“Manoj and Shruti Yadav’s Journey from Cow Protection to Natural Farming Inspires Hope and Sustainability”
In a heartwarming tale of devotion and sustainability, a dedicated couple in Vadodara has embarked on a remarkable mission to safeguard and raise desi cows, rescuing them from the grim fate of slaughterhouses. Manoj and Shruti Yadav, residents of Vadodara, Gujarat, have transformed their love for these sacred animals into a life’s mission, nurturing 18 cows in their sanctuary. What sets their endeavor apart is their innovative approach to financial sustainability, creating eco-friendly Ganesha idols from cow dung and Panchdravya to support their noble cause.
Manoj Singh Yadav, a lawyer by profession, embarked on this journey in 2017 when he realized the unavailability of desi cow’s milk in Vadodara. Originally hailing from Kanpur, he and his wife Shruti, a psychologist, now call Gujarat home as they work together to save and nurture desi cows.
Their commitment to rearing cows has been an arduous one, driven by their limited income. To meet the expenses, the couple has explored creative avenues, one of which involves crafting Lord Ganesha idols from cow dung and other cow-derived materials, selling them to sustain their sanctuary.
“Our mission began on December 25, 2017, when we rescued our first cow, Saraswati, from a slaughterhouse. We wanted to bring the benefits of desi cow’s milk to the people while ensuring the cows live a dignified life. Today, our ‘family’ comprises 18 livestock, including 10 cows, four calves, and four bulls, each named after a river,” shared Shruti Singh.
The couple’s journey has been marked by resilience, as they seek alternative means to finance their mission. “To support our cows, we initially ventured into producing Vedic ghee and sweets, which we sold. For the past three years, we have focused on crafting Ganesha idols from soil and Panchdravya (a blend of dung, gaumutra, ghee, milk, and curd). Our goal this year is to create 100 Ganesha idols. These eco-friendly idols not only generate income but also carry an important message,” explained Manoj Singh.
The couple’s sanctuary, nestled near Dhaniyavi, beyond the city limits, often welcomes cows in ailing conditions. Through meticulous care, nourishment, and a healthy diet, Manoj and Shruti nurse these animals back to health. Moreover, they have undertaken an eco-friendly farming venture, using cow dung and gaumutra to cultivate fodder on previously barren land. This successful endeavor has inspired Manoj to take the leap into natural farming, aiming for a more sustainable and healthier future.
Their story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of dedication, sustainability, and compassion. Manoj and Shruti Yadav have not only protected and nurtured desi cows but are also pioneering the path towards eco-friendly practices and natural farming, setting an example for others to follow.
