Fresh air, pure water and clean and hygienic habitation are the basic needs of a human being. Guru had a strong wish that these essential requirements of the Ashram inmates be met. Thus, a specialised unit for the design and construction of buildings took shape at Santhigiri Ashram in 1996. In 2001, Guru named the unit as Arooda Sudhi (Purity of Foundation).
The first housing complex for the Ashram inmates was inaugurated in March, 1996, and is commonly referred to as the ‘LIG’ and ‘MIG’ complex. This initiative of the Ashram was supported by HUDCO, a public sector undertaking under the Urban Development Ministry, Govt. of India. Ashram inmates are given free accommodation in the ‘LIG’ and ‘MIG’ complex.
Alongside, the Ashram also took up the construction of the first rainwater harvesting project to meet its needs for water. On Guru's directions, an unused quarry in front of the Ashram was converted into a rainwater harvesting area with a capacity of 50,000 litres. Called 'Karuna Suddha Jalam', this project not only served to end the water shortage in the Ashram but also helped to recharge the groundwater level in the surrounding areas.
Buoyed by the success of this initiative, which received an award from HUDCO, the Ashram now plans to develop 'Karuna Suddha Jalam –II' with a storage capacity of 10 million litres of water.
A new self-financing, high-rise housing complex, 'Santhigiri Homes', has been launched in 2009. Another complex, consisting of of eco-friendly and low cost houses, is also planned.
Apart from the Ashram's construction activities 'Aroodda Sudhi' also undertakes the design and construction of devotees' houses. These houses are built as per instructions received from Guru for the family concerned. A house plays a very important role in the life of a family and its fortunes. It is thus essential that it be situated in an appropriate location. It should also be designed properly, keeping in consideration the particular needs of the family, especially on the spiritual plane.
'Santhi Shrinkhala', a retail unit for the sale of building materials, hardware, sanitary goods, paints etc. was later started to support the Aroodda Sudhi activities.
