Mysuru to host 'Desi Soppu Mela' celebrating indigenous leafy greens

Mysuru is set to host the 'Desi Soppu Mela', a festival celebrating India's diverse heritage of leafy vegetables, on September 5 and 6. The event will bring together farmers, vendors, and consumers to showcase the variety and nutritional benefits of traditional greens cultivated across the region.

The mela will feature a wide array of indigenous leafy vegetables commonly used in South Indian cuisine, including varieties that have been part of local agricultural practices for generations. Organisers aim to highlight the cultural and culinary significance of these traditional greens while addressing growing concerns about food security and nutritional health.

The two-day festival will provide a platform for local farmers to directly connect with consumers interested in sourcing authentic, locally-grown produce. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the nutritional properties of various desi soppu (indigenous leafy greens) and their traditional uses in regional cooking.

The event also seeks to revive interest in traditional agricultural practices and encourage the cultivation of native vegetable varieties. By promoting awareness of these indigenous greens, organisers hope to support local farming communities while contributing to broader conversations about sustainable food systems and nutrition in the region.