mon chasha offers a unique experience of an authentic rural stay. just about 150 kms from kolkata, it is tucked away in a little, almost non-descript village, Paushi, in East Midnapore district. surrounded by green all around,it is based on the concept of eco-tourism linked to sustainable development. the location of this beautiful haven is superb,with four tastefully decorated thatched cottages (offering, needless to say, all urban amenities except a t v set) and a river flowing by just behind.the initiative by and sheer grit of a remarkable couple Nilanjan and Debjani have resulted in transforming a slice of the Bengal countryside into a nature lover's cherished destination.the gastronome has a wide variety of delicious rural fare to choose from... an authentic bengali platter beginning with the bitter and rounded off with the sweet. one can have a first-hand knowledge of rural activities such as pottery, making cane articles, clay models, organic cultivation of home-grown vegetables ,and a lot more.they have taken great pains to revive certain fast disappearing village craft like "goyna bori".it is a pleasure to see how they have tried to showcase local artistes in the field of music, literature, painting, etc.the hospitality and warmth of Nilanjan and Debjani are reason enough to go back to mon chasha. something which struck me was a very noble endeavour of funding an orphanage with the income generated from mon chasha ...a commendable venture, indeed! the overall ambience with its undisturbed peace and tranquillity is balm for our jaded souls...it is,in the words of Tagore, the comfort for the mind and peace for the soul.a short sojourn in this rural home is sure to work wonders for us, hapless city-dwellers. the pristine charm of mon chasha will beckon one over and over again!