Asha: Aruna and I are cousins and belong to a landed agricultural community in Bihar. We grew up with the best possible privileges in abundance. Studies were never important in such affluent communities, hence, we also did not take it up seriously. However, I was the first graduate in my family (between men and women). We got married young and led a wonderful life with our husband and children. Fate bound us together. Both of us lost our husbands at a young age. Our daughters have always been our pillars. Our sons lost their way which added to our grief. My daughter always pushed me to find some meaning and purpose in life but I would always evade the topic. And then, one day at aged 65, I decided to help myself. I reached out to my daughter and son-in-law who were already running a wonderful homestay, Cinnamon Stays in Gurgaon. My sister Aruna had an ancestral house in Varanasi, and we thought of running a Homestay there. That’s how Grannys Inn was born.
Grannys Inn is a cosy, authentic, Indian homestay in the holy and mystic city of Varanasi. We run the show with love and passion and enjoy hosting guests from different parts of the world. We have already hosted guests from more than 25 countries.
Grannys Inn is just a year and half young. Its like nurturing a baby all over again. We already are rated very highly on Trip Advisor. We aim to make it the No 1 Homestay in Varanasi.
What has been your biggest challenge in achieving your success?
It was our own attitude. Giving in rather than taking charge. We were not very confident of our ability as individuals. Today we are proud to say we are fairly successful business women.
What has been your greatest achievement personally?
Self confidence and reinventing ourselves. Taking charge of life. Helping ourselves and others around us.
If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing?
We’re not sure. We would have just continued with the status quo leading a life without any meaning and purpose.
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
My son-in-law, Manish and my daughter, for their courage and brave outlook in life. Also Lalita Ramdas and Admiral Ramdas who were very actively involved in the AAP elections. In their 70s they had the energy to beat the heat of Banaras and selflessly work towards a cause. Also, a guest at Cinnamon Stays called Lee aged 66 who came from England to Gurgaon to volunteer to help under-privileged children. Her enthusiasm in life really touched my core. She was like honey – everyone just automatically stuck to her.
What does the future hold for you?
The future has just begun for us. We want word of Grannys Inn to reach the entire country. We want to give the message that life starts at 60 and we can take charge of ourselves at any time, in any circumstance.
Website: www.grannysinn.in
Facebook: www.facebook.com/grannysinn?fref=ts
Twitter: twitter.com/grannys_inn
