Udupi
The festive season has seen a surge in celebrations, including Ganesh Chaturthi, Monti Fest, and Eid Milad. In response to the increased demand for vegetables and other ingredients, an organic vegetable market was organized at St. Anne’s Church in Thottam on September 6 and 7, coinciding with Monti Fest.
Farmers from Thottam, Thenkanidiyur, Badanidiyur, and Malpe participated in the market, offering a range of organically grown vegetables such as okra, gourds, spinach, black-eyed peas, and Malabar spinach. The event enabled farmers to sell their produce directly to consumers, bypassing intermediaries or brokers, and helped support the local agricultural economy.
Organized by the Catholic Sabha of Thottam Church with assistance from the local Interfaith Harmony Committee, the market allowed customers to purchase fresh vegetables at lower prices. Transactions were conducted in cash only, with no digital payments accepted. Buyers were encouraged to bring eco-friendly bags to promote sustainability.
Monti Fest, also known as the harvest festival, is traditionally a family-centric celebration. The St. Vincent de Paul Society of the church assisted underprivileged families, ensuring that everyone could partake in the festivities.
Fr. Denis D’Sa, the parish priest of St. Anne’s Church, emphasized the connection between festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Monti Fest and environmental consciousness. He noted that the organic vegetable market not only supported local farmers but also promoted the cultivation of organic produce, offering consumers a direct connection to the growers.
