Not Shani Shingnapur near Shirdi. This Indian village also has no shopkeepers or locks. Why?

Time of India

a day ago

Tired of too many ads?
Remove Ads
Internet reacts
In a world where surveillance cameras, passwords, and padlocks dominate our daily lives, there exists a tiny village in the hills of Nagaland that has quietly defied modern paranoia. Welcome to Khonoma, India's first Green Village, where shops operate without shopkeepers, homes remain unlocked, and the economy is run purely on trust . It sounds almost fictional, but this place not only exists, it thrives. A recent video by travel vlogger Hemani Chawda has put this remarkable village back in the spotlight, and the internet can't get enough of its heartwarming honesty.Khonoma isn't just a pretty place wrapped in mist and lush greenery; it's a living example of community values in action. As Hemani explored the village, she discovered 'honesty boxes' placed at local shops. Whether you're buying vegetables or a book, you simply take what you need and drop the right amount into the box. There's no one watching, no one policing, just deep-rooted faith in each other.The secret to this culture of trust lies in an ancient traditional code called Kenyo , followed by the Angami tribe . With over 150 taboos built into its framework, Kenyo doesn't just regulate actions, it instils values. It's this discipline, passed down through generations, that has created a society where integrity isn't a virtue; it's a way of life.Beyond its social uniqueness, Khonoma is also a pioneer in environmental consciousness. Long before 'going green' became a buzzword, the village had already banned hunting and tree-cutting. Every home here seems to practice organic farming, and conservation is not a government initiative but a deeply personal village-wide mission.But Khonoma's legacy doesn't end with trust and sustainability. It has a rich and proud history, often referred to as a 'warrior village' for its fierce resistance during British colonial rule. Its story is one of strength, resilience, and collective pride, one that deserves to be told and retold, especially in today's fractured world.One user shared their affection for Khonoma, recalling a visit from 2019 and expressing joy that the village has remained unchanged since. Another thanked the vlogger for showcasing their native village to the world. Someone added a humorous touch, suggesting that if you wanted to bargain for vegetables- say buy Rs 50 peas for Rs 40, you might have to email the seller. Amid the admiration, a more reflective comment wished that the 154 taboos guiding Khonoma's honesty and sustainability could be applied across India, though they admitted it feels like an unattainable dream.