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**Mysuru Celebrates Culinary Heritage with ‘Soppu’ Mela, Showcasing 150+ Leafy Green Varieties**

**MYSURU, September 6, 2025** – A vibrant celebration of leafy green vegetables, the “Soppu” Mela, kicked off today in Mysuru at the Nanjaraja Bahadur Choultry. Organized by Sahaja Samrudha, Hulikadu Farmers Producer Company, and ICAR–JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, the two-day event aims to revive interest in the culinary and nutritional importance of these often-overlooked foods.

The Mela features a dazzling display of over 150 varieties of leafy greens and their seeds, drawing farmers and enthusiasts from across Karnataka. R. Santosh Nayak, Director of the Directorate of Outreach, Karnataka State Open University, inaugurated the event, emphasizing the erosion of knowledge surrounding traditional leafy greens in modern urban diets. He stressed the historical significance of these vegetables in complementing local diets and safeguarding mental health, calling for a renewed effort to bring back the “culture of the greens.”

Experts at the event highlighted the nutritional value of leafy greens, emphasizing their crucial role in providing essential micronutrients for improved eyesight, blood pressure control, and boosted immunity. B.N. Gnanesh, Head of ICAR–JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, cautioned against the dangers of chemical pesticides and herbicides, urging farmers to adopt safer practices and consumers to support poison-free food production.

G. Krishna Prasad, Director of Sahaja Samrudha, emphasized that many naturally growing leafy greens, often dismissed as weeds, are rich in medicinal properties. The Mela seeks to raise awareness about these neglected resources.

The event includes stalls showcasing seeds, value-added products, organic produce, and fruit saplings from farmers and tribal communities across the state. A greens cooking competition and a drawing competition for children are scheduled for Sunday, further engaging the community in the celebration of leafy greens.

The “Soppu” Mela is a timely reminder of the importance of preserving traditional agricultural knowledge and promoting the health benefits of these often-underappreciated vegetables.

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