Niteshwar Prasad’s life exemplifies how unexpected changes can lead to fulfilling new paths. Originally a police officer, Prasad’s life took a significant turn following a harrowing car accident in 2006. This incident led him to reevaluate his priorities, ultimately steering him back to his roots as a farmer in Muaniweni, Naitasiri.
Having grown up on a farm with his family, farming had not previously been his envisioned career. The accident, compounded by the loss of his mother that same year, prompted him to embrace the family farming business with renewed vigor. “The accident forced me to rethink my life,” Prasad remarked, illustrating the profound impact of that moment on his future.
Today, Prasad manages over 10 acres of land, where he cultivates a diverse array of crops including approximately 6,000 dalo plants, pumpkins on a dedicated acre, and operates a chicken shed. His upbringing instilled in him an appreciation for the land and the values of hard work it demands. Prasad emphasizes that the rewards of farming extend beyond financial aspects. “Everything we eat is fresh,” he notes, taking pride in the health benefits of consuming his own produce, free from additives and disease.
His experiences have highlighted the physical and mental benefits of farm life, where daily labor keeps him strong and healthy. While he acknowledges the importance of education and professional careers, he encourages others not to overlook agricultural opportunities. “There’s a lot of money in farming if you are willing to work hard and stay focused,” he stated, promoting the potential that lies in the agricultural field.
Prasad’s positive outlook extends to his family, hoping one of his three children, who has expressed interest in farming, will carry on the legacy of the family farm. Reflecting on his journey, he expresses no regrets about leaving the police force. “I am happy and content as a farmer. I am my own boss,” he shared, viewing the accident as not an end, but a transformative beginning.
Prasad’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes life’s most challenging moments can pivot us towards our true calling, enriching our lives in ways we might never have imagined. His determination and joy in farming showcase the potential for personal and professional fulfillment found in reconnecting with one’s heritage and the land.