Unique herbal construction in Gaya village draws attention

Gaya: In a unique blend of traditional knowledge and alternative construction practices, a structure built in Matihani village in Bodh Gaya block of the district is drawing widespread attention for its use of Panchgavya—materials derived from cows—combined with herbal mixtures. The construction has been carried out without using cement or water.The structure, spread across a 3,300 sq ft plot (60 ft x 55 ft) owned by local resident Brajendra Kumar Choubey, is intended to house a Panchgavya-based medical centre aimed at promoting traditional healing practices.“It may seem impossible to build a structure without water and cement, but we have demonstrated that it can be done using natural materials such as neem powder, amla, turmeric, baheda, acacia gum and lime,” Choubey claimed. The mixture was used for binding bricks as well as plastering walls and flooring, while a herbal paste replaced conventional paint and cement plaster.Choubey, who runs a ‘goshala’ with 248 cows, including Gir breed cows, and also operates a Kathiawari horse breeding centre, said the availability of cow dung and urine in large quantities reduced construction costs to around Rs5 lakh. “I only had to purchase bricks and herbs from outside,” he added.The construction began around two months ago and is expected to be completed by the end of March. Choubey plans to launch the medical centre in April, with consultations from around a dozen experienced vaidyas (Ayurvedic practitioners) from other states specialising in various ailments.“People not only from Gaya but also neighbouring districts will be able to access natural treatment for chronic diseases,” he said. The structure is said to offer benefits such as temperature regulation, lower environmental impact and use of biodegradable materials. However, claims regarding its long-term durability are yet to be independently verified.Engineer Binay Kumar Sinha termed the initiative “An excellent concept rooted in traditional mud housing,” adding, “Such houses can offer several health benefits. If properly maintained, such structures might have a long life too”.“However, such techniques may not be suitable for vertical construction, which is becoming essential in urban areas due to population pressure and commercial needs”.Sinha added: “At present construction cost of a concrete structure comes around Rs 1,700 for per sq ft. Thus, the eco-friendly house being constructed at Matihani is only around 40% to 50 % of the concrete construction cost. Nature-friendly or elderly people willing to lead a peaceful and healthy life can adopt this idea,” he said.