Growing up, Satyajit and Ajinka Hange lived between two contrasting worlds — an Anglo-Indian boarding school in Pune and their rural family farm in Bhodani village, 150 km away.

After completing their MBAs and working for top MNCs like Citibank and HSBC, the brothers found success but lacked inner peace. They soon knew that it was time for a change.

When they decided to leave their well-paying jobs, everyone, including their father, was shocked. “Farming is not a profitable option,” they were told. But the brothers ignored the doubts and followed their passion for the soil.

Image courtesy: twobrothersorganicfarmsindia

They began with two acres of land, growing native varieties of pomegranates and desi tur dal. "The first four years were tough," admits Ajinkya. But their perseverance paid off as they transformed their farm with organic methods.

Image courtesy: twobrothersorganicfarmsindia

The brothers used heirloom seeds instead of hybrids or GMOs. They relied on mulching and composting to maintain soil health, and planted windbreak trees around the farm to protect the crops, creating a stable microclimate.

Their first major setback came when they harvested a ton of papayas, only to see them fetch just Rs 4/kg at the local market. “We asked them to sample them free of cost. Most customers came back because they loved the produce,” recalls Satyajit.

The brothers worked with local street vendors and eventually secured a deal with Star Bazaar. "We were growing gold," says Ajinkya. They soon realised that organic produce needed a dedicated market where it could be valued properly.

The Hange brothers set up their own farmer markets in Mumbai, including one at Dadar. "Every Sunday, we look forward to the 350 km ride to sell our produce," says Satyajit. They also began selling directly to customers through online platforms.

They practice intercropping, using cow dung and urine for manure. Their farm is 100% organic, certified by Ecocert. "We grow everything from pomegranates to emmer wheat, a gluten-free, diabetic-friendly crop," explains Ajinkya.

From a humble turnover of Rs 2 lakh in their first year, the brothers now make Rs 30 lakh a month. Their farm attracts farmers from across India, and over 2,000 have visited for training.

The brothers have expanded their reach internationally too, exporting organic produce to Australia, Dubai, the USA, Canada, and Switzerland.

“We want to break the conception that educated children shouldn’t turn to farming,” says Satyajit.

Image courtesy: twobrothersorganicfarmsindia