Desi Rice Mela begins in Mysuru, over 200 varieties on display - The HinduPublished - July 18, 2026 08:32 pm IST - MYSURUThe Desi Rice Mela highlights the nutritional and cultural importance of traditional rice. | Photo Credit: M.A. SriramThe two-day Desi Rice Mela began at Nanjaraja Bahadur Choultry in Mysuru on Saturday, showcasing more than 200 indigenous paddy varieties from across the country and highlighting the nutritional and cultural importance of traditional rice.Organised jointly by Sahaja Samrudha, Sahaja Seeds and the Save Our Rice Campaign, the mela aims to create awareness about Karnataka’s native rice varieties while providing better market opportunities for organic paddy farmers.The exhibition features traditional varieties such as Siddha Sanna, Ambemohar, Gandhasale, Ratnachoodi, Rajamudi, HMT, Kempu Sanna, Burma Black and Salem Sanna. Medicinal varieties including Karigajavali, Navara and Rakthasali, besides red and black rice, are also on display and sale.The event also features value-added products made from indigenous rice, organic products, indigenous seeds, and nursery plants. On Sunday, a drawing competition on the theme “Indigenous Rice Farming and Culture” for children aged 5 to 12 years and a traditional desi rice cooking competition will be held.Organisers said the mela seeks to revive traditional rice varieties that have gradually disappeared from farms and dining tables while encouraging healthier food choices.Published - July 18, 2026 08:32 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }