About Us
Our Mission
At Pure Presence Retreat, our mission is to cultivate a nurturing environment where individuals can embark on a transformative journey towards holistic wellness. We strive to empower our community to reconnect with their inner selves, embrace mindfulness, and foster a deeper sense of presence through the practice of yoga and meditation.
Our History
Mohit Budakoti and Mayank Bhatt, both immersed in their studies at Parmarth Gurukul, found a profound connection while exploring the depths of yoga. Mohit, with his roots in the captivating landscapes of Pauri Garhwal, and Mayank, embracing the tranquil surroundings of Tehri Garhwal, serendipitously encountered each other at the Gurukul. Alongside them, Ritesh Joshi, also from Tehri Garhwal, became an integral part of their spiritual journey, fostering their friendship. It was amidst the serene banks of Maa Ganga that they unearthed their life's purpose, pledging to disseminate the profound wisdom of the Yogic way of life worldwide. Fueled by the divine inspiration of the sacred waters of the Ganges, they are dedicated to offering transformative experiences, driven by their collective vision to catalyze positive change through the practice of yoga.
Our Values
Compassion: Compassion forms the cornerstone of our philosophy, fostering empathy, kindness, and understanding towards ourselves and others.
Mindfulness: We promote mindfulness as a way of life, guiding individuals to live consciously in the present moment and cultivate awareness in all aspects of their lives.
Inclusivity: We welcome individuals from all backgrounds, abilities, and levels of experience, creating a safe and supportive space for everyone to explore their practice.
Growth: We are committed to supporting personal growth and self-discovery, offering opportunities for individuals to expand their practice, explore new techniques, and deepen their understanding of themselves.
Authenticity: We believe in the power of authenticity, encouraging genuine connections and experiences both on and off the mat.
Our Place
Van Vadi is a serene retreat located within the Thano forest, on the outskirts of Dehradun, near Rishikesh. It offers a peaceful escape from city life, surrounded by nature. The place is rich in natural beauty, with fresh air, trees, wildflowers, birds, butterflies, and scenic trails. The farm is designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, using materials like stone, reclaimed wood, and recycled elements, which blend the rustic charm with modern comforts.
Van Vadi is a place where you can disconnect from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. The setting provides stunning views of the valley, sunrises, and moonrises, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection. The environment is raw and wild, yet welcoming, offering a space where guests can feel at home while being close to the wilderness.
The farm emphasizes a slower, quieter lifestyle, inviting visitors to soak in the natural beauty and simplicity of the area. The experience at Van Vadi is not just about staying in a beautiful place but also about embracing the natural environment and the tranquility it offers. The surrounding landscape, including terraced fields and off-road paths, adds to the charm, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and those looking to unplug and unwind.
Meet our tribe
Our team
Ritesh Joshi
Ritesh Joshi, from a village in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, though not schooled in a Sanskrit Gurukul or versed in Sanskrit, has dedicated himself to yoga since a young age, driven by a deep devotion to spirituality. He embraces modern culture while honoring traditional practices, pursuing education in various forms of yoga, including Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, and Flow Yoga. Despite his modern upbringing, he maintains a strong commitment to traditional values and spirituality. Ritesh's expertise spans Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, a Master's in Yogic Science, and Meditation, supported by certifications such as YTTC - 200hr / 300hr.
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Mohit Budakoti
Mohit Budakoti, hailing from Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, embarked on a journey of knowledge-sharing from an early age, inspired by his mentors. Educated in Sanskrit at Gurukul and Parmarth Gurukul, he holds a Master's in Yoga Science from Sanskrit University, specializing in Hatha Yoga & Asana Alignment, Spiritual Philosophy, and Meditation. Rooted in Gurukul traditions, he embodies values of discipline, respect, and service. His expertise spans Hatha Yoga Mastery, Spiritual Philosophy, and Meditation Proficiency, backed by certifications like YTTC - 200hr / 300hr and Hatha Yoga Course.
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Mayank Bhatt
Mayank Bhatt, from Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, delved into Sanskrit literature and Vedic scriptures at Sanskrit Gurukul, then graduated in Sanskrit Grammar from Parmarth Gurukul. He earned a Master's in Yoga Science from Sanskrit University, specializing in Hatha Yoga, Spiritual Philosophy, and Meditation. Mayank's upbringing instilled values of discipline, respect, and service, while daily rituals and meditation deepen his connection to tradition. Now, he's poised to share his expertise in Hatha Yoga, Spiritual Philosophy, and Meditation with the world.
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