Bengaluru is going to celebrate traditional food culture and farming heritage with a special ‘Soppu Mela’ (Greens Fair) this weekend in a unique way. The event aims to educate the public on the rich diversity, taste, nutritional value, and traditional knowledge of leafy vegetables, which are gradually disappearing from everyday diets with the introduction of native leafy vegetables.
The fair will be organised as part of the popular Ragi Kana Santhe and will be held on the premises of Sri Ramakrishna Integrated Education Centre near Gottigere on Bannerghatta Road. The exhibition will be open to the public from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and admission will be free.
The purpose of the event is to raise awareness of indigenous greens and encourage people to return to traditional food systems, the organisers say. Because of the urbanisation of processed and packaged foods in India, many of the native leafy vegetables that farmers used to eat in rural Karnataka are slowly disappearing. The Soppu Mela aims to preserve this valuable agricultural and culinary heritage by bringing farmers, consumers, food lovers, and health-conscious people together.
One of the biggest highlights of the fair will be the display of more than 150 varieties of leafy greens in one place. There will be a rare opportunity to see and learn about many traditional vegetables that are not easily available in urban markets. Many of these greens are known for their medicinal properties, nutritional benefits, and adaptability to local climatic conditions.
Farmers from the forest villages of Heggadadevanakote in Mysuru district will showcase more than 25 different leafy greens. These types of leafy greens have been preserved and grown over many generations using traditional farming methods. Their participation will contribute to our knowledge of indigenous agriculture and sustainable food production practices.
Another major attraction of the fair will be the participation of women farmers from North Karnataka, who will bring with them more than 50 types of jowar-based and native greens (Kirakasali and Hakkarike in particular) that are rare to be found in the region. These traditional greens have been part of local diets in this region and are rich in nutrition.
In addition, farmers from Kundgol, Shiggaon, and Kalaghatagi will also bring a wide variety of leafy vegetables harvested and cultivated in their areas. Not only can visitors see these varieties, but they will also be able to buy them directly from the farmers. This direct interaction will provide valuable information on local food systems and support small-scale agricultural producers.
Traditional greens are said to be crucial for biodiversity, food security, and good nutrition. Many native leafy vegetables have vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fibre that are vital for a healthy lifestyle. Modernisation and changing food habits have led to a decline in their consumption.
The Soppu Mela is thus expected to be a platform for learning about forgotten greens, how they are grown, their health benefits, and their culinary uses. It also offers a new experience for urban residents to experience Karnataka’s rich agricultural traditions firsthand.
The organisers encourage families, students, nutrition lovers, and nature lovers to attend the fair and see the beautiful variety of native greens. All the information about the fair can be found at 9972676426.
With more than 150 varieties of leafy vegetables, participation from farmers across Karnataka, and a focus on preserving traditional knowledge, the Soppu Mela is surely going to be a festival of food heritage, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture.
