‘They called me crazy’: 40 lakh investment! Meet Asghar Ali of Pakistan - He turned his home into mini forest for mother

More than a decade ago, Mian Asghar Ali’s mother expressed a simple wish to her son – the creation of a garden around their home. This desire took root in 2016 when Asghar planted his first sapling on their six-marla house in Pattoki, Punjab, Pakistan. Despite initial skepticism from others, Asghar persisted in his mother's dream, transforming their small plot into a thriving mini forest of over 5,700 trees and plants.

Initially, Asghar faced resistance from his mother, who questioned whether such a small space could accommodate a garden. However, witnessing her disappointment fueled Asghar's determination. He began by purchasing around 50 plants, placing 10 inside their home and 40 along the outer walls. Over time, he continued to add more, gradually turning their house into a lush haven.

Asghar's efforts have not gone unnoticed. People who visit his home now appreciate his work and view him with respect, having once called him "crazy." The project has required a significant investment - more than 40 lakh Pakistani rupees, with Asghar spending around PKR 30,000 each month on maintenance. This includes expenses for saplings, soil, tools, and ongoing care to keep the plants healthy throughout the year.

To ensure year-round growth, Asghar has chosen specific plants that thrive in sunlight and are resilient to extreme winter frost. He no longer needs to cover the plants as traditional nurseries do. His daily routine involves dedicating two to three hours to watering and caring for the plants after Fajr (Dawn) prayers.

Looking ahead, Asghar aims to grow 10,000 plants and hopes to set a Guinness World Record for this achievement. Gulam Jeelani, Political Desk Editor at LiveMint, has covered Asghar's story, highlighting the transformation of a home into a mini forest and the dedication of a son to fulfill his mother's dream.