An 18th-century lifestyle devoted to Shrikrushna, consciously adopted

Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) - Located approximately 110 km from Visakhapatnam, Kurmagram village in Srikakulam district is home to a small community of just 56 residents who follow a way of life dating back nearly 300 years to the 18th century.

The village is entirely devoid of modern amenities such as electricity and internet connectivity.

The daily routine of the villagers begins during Brahma Muhurta at around 3:30 a.m., and they retire for the night by 7:30 p.m. Significantly, despite having the means to access modern facilities, the residents have voluntarily renounced material comforts. Their lifestyle is guided by the principle of 'simple living and high thinking.' The village comprises 14 families along with a few devoted followers of Shrikrushna, all of whom have dedicated their lives to spiritual practice.

Distinctive features of the village

1. Traditional housing

The houses in Kurmagram are constructed using traditional methods, often built by the villagers themselves. Spread across approximately 60 acres, the settlement reflects architectural inspiration drawn from the 9th-century Sri Mukhalingam Temple.

2. Food and cooking Practices

No household in the village uses gas stoves; instead, all cooking is done on traditional wood-fired stoves. The residents cultivate their own vegetables and grains to meet their dietary needs. Visitors to the village are respectfully served meals, as 'prasadam.'

3. Minimal use of communication devices

The village does not possess modern electronic devices or equipment. Notably, there is only one basic mobile phone in the entire village, which is used solely for essential external communication.