Pics:- Maricel Fernandes / Nithin Pereira
Daijiworld Media Network - Brahmavar (NP)
Brahmavar, May 31: The Rotary Club of Brahmavar and the Rotary Club of Barkur jointly organized a vibrant event titled 'The Magic of Rotary' under Zone 3, Rotary International District 3182. In collaboration with the Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga and ICAR Agricultural Science Centre, Zonal Agricultural and Horticultural Research Centre, and the Diploma Agricultural College. The jackfruit and fruits mela will be held till June 1.
More than 100 stalls showcasing diverse fruit-based products, especially from jackfruit, were set up, drawing large crowds and offering a platform for small farmers and entrepreneurs. Apart from fruits the mela has various products displayed including the plants , clothes from various places, accessories and many more.
Rtn C A Devanand, district governor of RI District 3182, in his inaugural address said "The mela has started, and people are fully engaged. This is truly a celebration, much like an 'utsav', and we organize it every year. People from all places have gathered here, and it’s all made possible by the efforts of the Rotary Club. This event provides a great advantage to the public and to small businesses, as they get an opportunity to showcase their products and people get to experience the taste of organic goods. Rotary focuses on seven areas of service, one of which is economic and community development. This mela aligns perfectly with that goal, as it helps promote the economic growth of small businesses. Rotary exists to serve humanity, and I believe this programme will be a successful one. I extend my best wishes to all the businesses and people participating in this event."
Ashok Kumar Shetty, president of TAPCMS (Ltd), Udupi, said, “Wild animals often damage the crops of farmers, especially jackfruit, mango, and other fruits. However, this mela is the collective effort of small farmers, and it will go a long way in supporting both small farmers and local businesses.”
Dr A B Patil, president of the Institution of Agricultural Technologists, Bengaluru, was felicitated at the event. In his address, he said, “I am truly happy to witness this jackfruit and fruit mela. It is a commendable initiative by the Rotary organization. I have seen small business fairs before, but organizing this in an air-conditioned venue is a great boost for small entrepreneurs. From jackfruit alone, more than 100 different products and food items can be made. Fruits offer great value addition, and small businesses should learn essential skills like branding and marketing. In the coming years, farmers will lead the world. During the COVID-19 pandemic, while many industries shut down, the agricultural sector grew, and many graduates turned to farming. The importance of agricultural products has now extended to exports. Branding holds immense power — even the Taj Mahal is both a monument and a tea brand. Farmers must adopt modern technology and transform into entrepreneurs who sell directly to consumers. Unfortunately, people often portray only the struggling farmer, not the successful ones driving BMWs or Mercedes. Every time we eat, we must remember the hard work of our farmers.”
Rtn B M Bhat, District governor Nominee 2026–27, said, “This event has been wonderfully organized by the Rotary, and it’s heartening to see such a large turnout. On my way here, I saw so many people, and I felt that this is truly the best platform for small businesses to grow. The food industry has a consistently high demand, and as an auditor, I can confidently say that the food industry rarely faces losses. The farmers here are providing organic food at reasonable prices, which benefits both the farmers and the visitors. Rotary plays a similar role, supporting businesses and people, and helping them thrive. This three-day program will be beneficial to everyone involved.”
Fr M C Mathai, parish priest of St Mary’s Church, Brahmavar, said, “I congratulate the members of the Rotary Clubs of Brahmavar and Barkur for organizing such a wonderful event. The slogan ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’ reminds us of the importance of both soldiers and farmers. We must never forget the farmer, whose hard work and sweat are the foundation of the prosperity we enjoy today. The primary aim of this programme is to make farming profitable and to support our farmers. This reflects a deep sense of social commitment, and true social service is something we should all carry in our hearts.”
One of the event’s highlights was the honoring of Sadhashiva Patil Pandeshwara, a farmer and entrepreneur known for his watermelons, which attract long queues of customers. His success and participation in the mela were recognized as a model for agricultural entrepreneurship. Jayasri, known for preparing various products and food from Jackfruit, also received the felicitation. 'The Magic of Rotary' successfully highlighted the potential of agricultural innovation, community service, and the power of collaboration to uplift local economies and celebrate the contributions of farmers and small entrepreneurs.
Rtn Aroor Sridhar V Shetty welcomed the gathering. Rtn Rajaram Shetty gave the vote of thanks. Alwyn Andrade compered the event.
The inaugural ceremony witnessed the presence of Rtn C A Devanand, District governor, RI District 3182; Rtn Aroor Sridhar V Shetty, president, Rotary Club, Brahmavar; Rtn B M Bhat, District governor nominee 26–27; Ashok Kumar Shetty Mairmadi, president, TAPCMS (Ltd), Udupi; Dr A B Patil, president, Institution of Agricultural Technologists, Bengaluru; Anand Kundar, managing director, Janatha Fish Meal, Kota-Manoor; Fr M C Mathai, parish priest, St Mary’s Church, Brahmavar; Dr Sudheer Kamath K V, principal, Diploma College of Agriculture, Brahmavar; Dr Bhoomika H R, scientist (Horticulture), Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Brahmavar; Rtn M Raghavendra Samaga, assistant governor, Zone 3, RI District 3182; Rtn Ganesh Shetty, president, Rotary Club, Barkur; Rtn Rajaram Shetty, zonal lieutenant, Zone 3, 3182; Rtn Dinesh Nayari, zonal lieutenant, Zone 3, 3182; Rtn Shankar Suvarna, zonal lieutenant, Zone 3, 3182 and the visitor and others were present on the occasion.