The two-day mela scheduled for May 14 and 15 at Gandhi Bhavan will showcase the rice diversity in Karnataka and educate people about its nutritional values.
“The Mela showcases various nutritious varieties of rice grown by Karnataka’s farmers, who preserve diversity by conserving different strains of rice. The many varieties of red rice, from different regions of the State, will be exhibited here,” said Krishna Prasad, convenor, Sahaja Samrudha.
He said a large number of these varieties are still grown in various parts of the country by tribals and small farmers who are deprived of modern technologies and health care systems. At least 100 varieties of indigenous rice, including 40 varieties of red rice alone, will be on display. “Of these about 15 varieties which are preserved and cultivated organically by farmers will be available for sale,” he said.
Red rice products such as rice flakes, rava, papad, laddus and other delicacies will also be on display and sale.
