Sangha of Auspicious Companions

How One Woman Is Transforming Chennai’s Terraces Into Urban Forests

In the heart of the bustling city of Chennai, India, S. Veeralakshmi’s rooftop garden is more than just a picturesque green space; it’s a personal manifesto urging a return to sustainable roots. With over 500 plants flourishing above the city streets, her sanctuary underscores a simple yet profound philosophy: “Grow what you eat, eat what you grow.” This creed has evolved beyond her own terrace, as she empowers over 1,500 others to transform their rooftops into vibrant ecosystems through Chennai Organic Farmers. Her story whispers that climate action doesn’t need grand gestures; it begins with a pot of herbs, a shared curiosity, and a willingness to see dirt as a seedbed for change. Veeralakshmi demonstrates that reconnecting with the soil has quiet, unassuming power; it’s therapy, it’s sustenance, and it’s unity in action. Her voice, a gentle rustle among the leaves, reminds us that not all heroes wear capes — some simply cultivate resilience one plant at a time.

Be The Change

Start a small rooftop or balcony garden with just a few pots using kitchen scraps or seeds from fruits and vegetables you consume. As S. Veeralakshmi advocates, “Grow what you eat, eat what you grow.” This simple step not only promotes sustainability but it also encourages self-sufficiency and reduces your carbon footprint.