Natural farming festival signals shift towards sustainable food habits
Tens of thousands of people attended a five-day community food festival in Andhra Pradesh, underlining growing interest in natural farming and sustainable food systems.
The second edition of Sabala Bhojanala Panduga, held from April 1 to 5 at the Simhachalam Goshala here, drew an estimated 50,000 visitors, organisers said. The festival, launched in 2024 by natural farming advocate Vijay Ram and inspired by agriculturist Subhash Palekar, brought farmers and consumers together to revive traditional food practices and challenge perceptions around organic produce.
Farmers from Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam districts played a key role in the event, which aimed to address concerns that natural foods are difficult to prepare or not easily accessible. Organisers said such perceptions have affected farmers shifting away from chemical-based agriculture.
“The intention is to create a direct connection between those who grow food and those who consume it,” said Chalapathi Rao, a member of the organising team.
A range of dishes made from indigenous ingredients, including millets, grains, lentils, and vegetables, was served at the festival. More than 50 varieties of traditional seeds and rice were showcased through the menu, with different preparations introduced each day. The food was served free of cost, with visitors encouraged to make voluntary contributions.
The festival also served as a platform for discussions on natural farming practices. Sessions on bio salt, seed conservation, and sustainable agriculture saw participation from experts from Maharashtra and Telangana. Organisers emphasised the need for farmers to preserve and regenerate seeds instead of depending on repeated purchases.
Around 30 stalls run by farmers sold natural and organic produce, reflecting what organisers described as rising demand for chemical-free food. Demonstrations on sustainable living practices such as bamboo craft, palm-leaf bedding, and pottery were held, along with showcases of traditional healthcare systems, including Ayurveda, Siddha, and Homoeopathy.
Native cattle breeds were displayed, while folk performances from the region added a cultural dimension to the event.
Organisers said the initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen local food systems and support farmers adopting sustainable agricultural practices.