Shivamogga, Karnataka – May 28: In a vibrant celebration of Karnataka’s seasonal bounty, the city of Shivamogga is set to host a two-day “Mango and Jackfruit Mela” starting June 5. Organized by the Department of Horticulture in collaboration with local farmers and traders, the festival aims to showcase the finest varieties of mangoes and jackfruits from the Malnad region, offering a unique platform for producers and consumers alike.
A Sweet Celebration of Summer Harvest
The event, which will be held at the Shivamogga Town Hall premises from 10 am to 8 pm, comes as a welcome treat for fruit lovers across the district. With summer reaching its peak, both mangoes and jackfruits are in abundance across Karnataka’s coastal and hilly belts. The mela is expected to feature over 50 stalls, displaying dozens of mango varieties—including Alphonso, Badami, Raspuri, Totapuri, and the locally prized Nanjanagudu Rasalu—alongside fresh, organically grown jackfruits known for their unique sweetness and texture.
“We have seen excellent yields this season thanks to timely rainfall. This mela will help farmers get better prices and consumers access quality fruits directly from growers,” said an official from the Horticulture Department. The event also intends to promote value-added products such as mango pulp, pickle, squash, and jackfruit chips, which are increasingly popular in regional and national markets.
Platform for Farmers and Small Businesses
One of the key objectives of the mela is to create a direct-to-consumer channel, eliminating middlemen and ensuring fair remuneration for farmers. Small-scale growers from Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, and Davanagere districts will participate, setting up stalls to sell their produce without any stall fee. Farmers have welcomed the initiative, noting that such melas provide vital exposure to urban buyers and help build brand recognition for local agriculture.
In addition to fresh fruit sales, the mela will feature a “Taste and Buy” corner where visitors can sample different varieties before purchasing. Competitions for the largest jackfruit and the sweetest mango will add a festive flavor, with prizes sponsored by the zilla panchayat and local cooperative banks.
Enthusiastic Response Expected
The district administration expects a footfall of over 5,000 visitors over the two days. “Shivamogga is known for its rich horticulture, and this mela will attract not just local residents but also tourists from nearby towns like Thirthahalli and Sagar,” said the Deputy Director of Horticulture. Parking and security arrangements have been finalized, and volunteers from the local agriculture college will assist with logistics.
The mela is also likely to draw attention from hoteliers and restaurant owners who use fresh fruits for seasonal menus. High-quality jackfruit, in particular, has gained popularity as a vegan meat substitute, and several food startups have expressed interest in sourcing from the fair.
Conclusion
As Karnataka continues to see a surge in agri-tourism and farmer-centric events, the Shivamogga Mango and Jackfruit Mela stands out as a timely initiative that boosts the local economy and celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage. With its focus on direct farmer linkages, value addition, and consumer engagement, the event promises to be a sweet success for all stakeholders. Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend and savor the best of Malnad’s summer harvest.