RITUALS OF REJUVENATION

Swastik, a new luxury 'wellbeing sanctuary' in Pune, takes a 360-degree approach to wellness.

- Amit Dixit

There are no corners in my understated yet luxurious accommodation at Swastik, a new wellness retreat set among verdant hills on the outskirts of Pune with sweeping views of Khadakwasla Lake. The idea, I'm told, is to create the comforting sense of being in a womb. They're called guhas here, and while minimalistic, the cosy 'caves', done up in muted beige and off-white tones, come with all modern conveniences.

Days at Swastik pass in a flurry of signature rituals. My arrival is marked with a 'Swastik Swagat', where I stand in a metal bowl while a bell above is rung, giving my off-key frequencies a gentle reset. Instead of a conventional 'namaste', I'm greeted with the heartfelt 'Atma Naman'. As I settle in for the night, there's a knock at the door. Someone's here to perform 'Swastik Nidra', a ritual to tuck me into bed with aromatic oils and a quick foot massage.