The first look

The topography of the 51-acre retreat adds considerably to its allure. Nestled amidst the Sahyadris, there is a 30-metre gradient, which means the property is spread over several undulating levels, defying the traditional categorisation of stories or levels. While treatments are at the core of wellness, just about every visitor seems to be struck by the design. “By blending the ancient principles of Vaastu Shastra with modern design, we have created spaces that harmonise with nature and the human spirit,” points out Manish Banker, Principal Architect, TAO Architecture, and Chief Architect, Swastik. “Our architecture reflects the five-dimensional values that guide us toward peace. Each space, integrated with the five core elements, offers a unique experience to help individuals thrive and radiate these essential values. Swastik is an environment designed not only to comfort the body but to nourish the soul.” The retreat is divided into vihars or zones, each dedicated to a specific aspect of wellness.

Design philosophy

The grace of the rolling contours of the valley is a rising source of energy for Swastik, according to Banker. “The design embraces functional needs by uniting all five core elements, the Panch Mahabhuta—earth, air, water, fire, and space, as the guiding force of its design.”  Each of the five vihars is tied to an element, and its design reflects that, including flowy lines.

Anand Vihar is the first point of entry into the retreat, and arguably the most sophisticated from the design perspective. It represents fire or agni. Offering a breathtaking view of Khadakwasla Lake, it is devoted to rejuvenation, is spread over several levels and is perhaps the core of Swastik. Architecturally, this unit is conceived as the symbolic logo of Swastik, the blooming flower with multiple petals offering various functions. A multi-level structure, it is held together by a striking stairwell, around which are galleries that seemingly spread out from the core.

A skylight at the top allows sunlight to reach even the lower floors. Functionally, this vihar is meant to spark the spirit of an inner journey through curated guidance and self-exploration. The cohesive unit is designed to integrate various social and collaborative functions, including the superb arrival lounge, consultation rooms, Ninadika, a sonorium, exhibition galleries, Vyayam (gymnasium), Smitam (a poolside lounge), Sangithi (auditorium), clubbing hall, swimming pool, and Sukh Kund (Watsu pool), and Sama (an outdoor seating area).

The highlight is Rasa, a vast café that doubles as an island of serenity and overlooks much of the retreat and the lake beyond. The logo is prominently incorporated here—note the bottom of the hydro-therapy pool for example.

Incidentally, this block also accommodates most of the backend functions—engineering services, kitchens, stores, mechanical cooling, plumbing, security, water and air filtration systems, etc. The design carefully chooses to integrate passive cooling systems, natural light and ventilation, thermal and sound insulations and sensitive anthropology to express its environment-friendly and energy-conscious identity while blending its presence with the natural settings surrounding it.

Dhyan Vihar, the meditation hall, metaphorically represents space or the vastness of emptiness—Shunyam, to be experienced through a conducive environment created to be one with self and listen to the sound of silence. It is dominated by a vast 11,000sq.ft. meditation hall and the Nakshatra Van (Zodiac Garden) for cosmic alignment. This corner-less circular space with a conical roof is designed to generate spiralling energy to recharge seekers and connect with the prevailing existential energy all around.

The interiors are rendered in monochromatic earthy textures and tones rising from a marble floor. The mood is enhanced by soft sunlight dappling through a tensile fabric roof, where oxygenated air passes through strategic openings. Special attention has been paid to crafted acoustic surfaces, passive cooling systems, thoughtful lighting and universal accessibility. The adjoining Zodiac Garden continues the principles in a seamless transition.

Ayu Vihar, which is associated with air, is where the spa and treatment spaces are. It offers holistic healing through Ayurveda, naturopathy, and alternative therapies, featuring therapy rooms and relaxation zones.

The spatial orchestration is unique:  the entrance is at the top level, while spaces below fall away into zones of solitude. The structure is broadly in the shape of a peacock feather, to facilitate gentle touch to the body and mind to loosen up while experiencing therapeutic treatment. It is divided into Aaram (welcome/tea lounge), Vishram (relaxation room), Purvam (pre-therapy room), Pashcham (post-therapy room), Nisargam (naturopathy), Surya Kund (hot tub), Chandra Kund (cold pool), Lavanam (salt cave, surely the largest in India), Navam (massage room), Ayuram (Ayurvedic therapy room), Saham (couple’s massage room), and Akasham (terrace lounge). A plethora of trees and inner garden courts add to the sense of calm.

Sukh Vihar, the residential area, is where Banker’s genius is most evident. Called ‘guhas’, these are a series of interconnected womb-like spaces, almost a garbhmala of Mother Earth (Bhumi). Comprising accommodation spaces, they defy any categorisation into terms such as rooms, suites, villas, etc. At first glance, the cave-like structures look straight out of Hobbiton. Do not rush to judge, they are extremely spacious and luxurious. Built on a slope, they are the cynosure of those coming to the centre, with reason. 36 are operational at the moment, while a total of 64 are planned.

Located by the slopes and rendered in ferrocrete, they are indistinguishable from the landscape as they are covered with vegetation—from trees to creepers to shrubs—often floral or of medicinal value. The thick, verdant mantle is interrupted in places by bunched-at-several-levels, cave-like openings that make the fantastical picture complete. Inside, no two residential spaces are identical, though they offer roughly the same area. Each comprises a large living room, an equally large bedroom, an entrance space to leave your footwear, and ample storage zones that include areas for food and beverages. The washrooms, too, carry the flowing theme and perhaps the most alluring of all is an outdoor seating space, complete with a swing. Note, no corners anywhere!

Throughout, the interior spaces are marked with subtle lighting, artwork, and designer furniture in surroundings of pastel hues and earthy-to-smooth textures. The floors and walls have a finish of low volatile content acrylic paint in beige. The furniture—and there is a substantial amount—is largely made from salvaged teak wood with a distressed finish polish. Energy usage is minimised due to the use of stack ventilation systems via chimneys which draw in natural daylight.

Ganga Vihar is envisioned as a sacred space inspired by the fifth element of Pancha Mahabhuta—water. It is designed as a harmonious blend of nature and architecture, where water flowing from the site and the valley is carefully guided into a serene cascading system.

The water collected from the valley forms natural water bodies and channels that gently lead to a beautifully crafted ghat. Made from natural stone, the ghat emerges gracefully along the water’s edge, creating a peaceful space for reflection, rituals and community gatherings. The design respects the natural contours of the land, ensuring minimal disruption while enhancing the spiritual and ecological essence of the place.

Existing trees stand here as guardians, providing sacred energy and a sense of sanctity. Nestled within this natural embrace is a Shiva temple, placed to harness cosmic energies in alignment with Vedic principles.

The interplay of water, stone, and foliage creates an ever-changing landscape, where ripples and reflections dance in the dappled sunlight. The space invites seekers to engage in Vedic activities fostering a deep bond between the elements of nature.

The difference in design for each zone is apparent at first glance. “Each one is meticulously identified with its functional programme,” elaborates Banker. “The master planning of various blocks and activities is consciously designed to integrate the campus as a holistic entity for seekers and masters to explore various potential spaces within and without.”

For most people, a visit to Swastik would be for health reasons. For appreciators of design and architecture, this is a bonus, a gentle homily on how good design can elevate the wellness experience. Swastik pushes the envelope in India for wellness and design in equal measure. 

The wellness guiding principles

• Swastik is founded on a philosophy of five interwoven dimensions—Health, Wealth, Love, Bliss, and Spirituality—designed to bring balance and purpose to life. While ‘Health’ is at the core, guided by Vedic principles, ‘Wealth’ focuses on personal growth and inner abundance rather thanjust material gain, ‘Love’ nurtures deep human connection, and ‘Bliss’ inspires joy and gratitude. Lastly, ‘Spirituality’ offers a path to self-alignment and mindfulness, helping guests explore their highest potential.

• “At Swastik, we embrace a holistic approach to wellbeing that encompasses the essential dimensions of life,” says Anushree Nyati, Director, Swastik. “Our sanctuary guides each guest on a transformative journey, rejuvenating them in a holistic and profound way.”

• As with some other wellness centres, it offers personalised wellness journeys tailored to individual needs and life stages. There are different programmes that seekers can opt for. Discover Programs—starting from three nights—provide an introductory yet immersive wellness experience. Heal Programs, lasting seven nights or more, offer deeper therapeutic journeys, such as ‘Holistic Detox’ and ‘Panchakarma’, focusing on both body and soul. For those seeking to cultivate long-term vitality, Empower Programmes like ‘Graceful Ageing’ and ‘Essence of Womanhood’ are designed to support life’s transitions. There are even yearly Signature Programs—such as ‘Acing Adolescence’ and ‘Roots & Relations’—that strengthen family bonds and personal growth, offering seekers lasting support throughout the year.