Over 200 rice varieties to go on display at Mysuru desi rice mela
There was a time when paddy fields across Karnataka flourished with a rich diversity of indigenous rice varieties. Each variety had its own unique history
There was a time when paddy fields across Karnataka flourished with a rich diversity of indigenous rice varieties. Each variety had its own unique history, nutritional value, and cultural significance. These farmer-developed rice varieties were well adapted to local climates, soils, and food traditions, filling the plates of generations with wholesome and healthy food. Traditional varieties such as Puttabhatta of Melukote, Ratnachoodi of Yelandur, Rajabhoga of Periyapatna, Rajamudi of Holenarasipura, Anekombina Bhatt from Nanjangud, Munduga of Kanakapura, Halu Doddi from the forests of Nagarahole, Halubbalu of Tumakuru, Gandhasale of Malnad, Jeerige Sanna, and countless others once thrived across the region. Different varieties were preferred for different purposes — some for daily meals, others for payasa (sweet pudding), idli, dosa, kajjaya, avalakki (flattened rice), and even special varieties reserved for temple offerings.
Indigenous rice is much more than just a staple food. These traditional varieties are naturally rich in micronutrients, dietary fibre, and antioxidants. Having evolved over generations in local ecosystems, they have contributed significantly to the health and well-being of communities. “Unfortunately, many of these invaluable rice varieties have disappeared from our fields as well as our dining tables. Consumers have increasingly become dependent on polished white rice, often at the cost of both their health and their money,” according to Sahaja Samrudha. To create awareness among consumers in Mysuru about the importance of indigenous rice, Sahaja Samrudha, Sahaja Seeds, and the Save Rice Campaign are jointly organising the Desi Rice Mela on July 18 and 19 at Nanjaraja Bahadur Choultry in Mysuru.
The event aims to introduce visitors to the State’s rich diversity of indigenous rice while creating better market opportunities for organic paddy farmers. The two-day desi rice mela will be inaugurated by Sreekanth P. Kanavi, president of the Rotary Club Mysore (West). Krishnamurthy A. J., Secretary of the club, will attend as the chief guest. The exhibition will showcase more than 200 traditional paddy varieties collected from across the country. Visitors will also be able to purchase popular indigenous rice varieties such as Siddha Sanna, Ambemohar, Gandhasale, Ratnachoodi, Salem Sanna, HMT, Kempu Sanna, Rajamudi, Burma Black, Sindhoora Madhusale, Andanuru Sanna, Dodda Baira Nellu, Gowri Sanna, and Kempu Mundaga. Medicinal rice varieties including Karigajavali, Navara, and Rakthasali will also be available, along with red rice and black rice, the organisers said.
The BriefWire