In the auspicious month of Chingam, which marks the Malayalam New Year, paddy fields across Kerala prepare for the season of abundance. Amidst this, one farmer in Kozhikode stands out—not just for cultivating rice, but for preserving a living legacy.
Venu, of Pallikkara Thazhe Illam, nurtures 70 unique rice varieties on his farm. His dedication highlights the cultural and nutritional richness of traditional and organic farming.
Seeds of Tradition
Venu’s collection includes heirloom seeds and varieties sourced from across India. His fields host a striking range—from Navara, known for its medicinal uses, and Rakthashali, rich in iron, to the dark-hued Black Jasmine. Other varieties like 60-aam Kuruva, Kuthir, Annapoorna, Jyothi, Krishna Kamod, Athira, and Uma also flourish under his care.
While institutions like ICAR–NRRI in Cuttack, ICAR–IIRR in Hyderabad, and BCKV in West Bengal are researching organic rice and developing certified varieties, Venu’s individual initiative to safeguard and propagate traditional seeds remains both rare and remarkable.
A Network of Exchange
What makes his collection grow continuously is an age-old practice: seed exchange. Every time Venu shares his seeds with a farmer, he receives a new one in return, creating a sustainable cycle of diversity.
Today, Venu is widely recognized. Temple authorities seek his rice for the Illam Nira ritual, while Krishi Bhavan officials rely on him for rare seeds. He also processes his own harvest, retaining the bran, which he says enhances the rice’s medicinal value and demand.
The Healing Power of Rice
Venu’s passion comes from his belief in the health benefits of traditional rice.
Black Jasmine is said to aid in treating certain ailments.
Dabharshali has straw with a unique violet-green shade.
Navara produces red grains used medicinally during Kerala’s monsoon month (Karkidakam).
Rakthashali is given to children to improve blood count.
Krishna Kamod, once a royal delicacy, has a violet hue.
Varinnellu helps combat fatigue, with roots that carry medicinal properties.
An Uphill Journey
Despite challenges, Venu refuses to adopt chemical fertilizers. He leases land, funds irrigation and organic inputs himself, and struggles with limited support from labor schemes. Yet, his determination remains unshaken.
Recognized by Thikkodi Krishi Bhavan as a top farmer, Venu also shares his knowledge generously. He invites schoolchildren to his fields, organizes seed exhibitions, and demonstrates that farming is not just a livelihood but a way of life intertwined with culture, health, and sustainability.