Award-winning Nat Geo photographer and field recordist John Stanmeyer visited Cauvery Calling-mentored farms and recorded the sound of microbial life in Valluvan’s farm’s rich soil—while barren land remained silent. A powerful reminder that tree-based agriculture brings soil back to life.

After retiring from teaching, Tamilanban turned his focus to his two-acre farm in Sivagangai. Guided by Cauvery Calling, he intercropped timber species like mahogany, teak, and rosewood. Six years on, his 100 thriving mahogany trees alone are worth ₹15 lakh (approximately $17500). “The leaves turn to compost, the soil is alive, and water isn’t a worry anymore,” he says. His story shows how even small farms can grow into green gold.

Inspired by Cauvery Calling’s impact in Krishnagiri—817 farmers and 656,020 saplings—local leaders, industrialists, and changemakers came together in March to plan the next leap. With Hosur in focus, the aim is to scale tree-based agriculture across the district.