Rice lovers now have a gem to cherish in the form of Kalanamak rice bearing a GI tag. This exotic variety in addition to its mesmerizing taste is grown in the historical region of Kapilvastu and possesses notable nutritional value.
Additionally known for its low glycemic index, Kalanamak rice is an ideal choice for diabetes patients and fitness freaks as it ensures stable levels of blood sugar in the body. This aromatic rice which is rich in culture and tradition is grown on the fertile lands of Kapilavastu and is passed through generations. Opting for Kalanamak rice is not only good for your health but encourages healthy farming and is a way to remember the past. Let us tell you more about it today.
Kapilavastu is one of the most revered locations in the history of Buddhism as it is the location where Siddhartha Gautama, later in life known as Buddha, was born and where he spent his childhood. It’s quite literally a perfect blend of culture and landscape. This region, which is part of Uttar Pradesh, has got excellent combination of soil, water and climate that is suitable for the cultivation of GI-certified Kalanamak rice.
The distinct soil coupled with the minerals in this region adds natural taste and fragrance to the rice. Strong monsoons and mild temperatures are also key factors, as they help achieve good yields of the crop. But, not only the geography plays an important role – when it comes to this region, it’s about the people. These farmers for generations have been practicing agriculture in an eco respectful manner throughout the ages.
They cut no corners; organic fertilizers and the most appropriate methods of watering are the pillars of their farming. The coexistence of these two aspects assures that not only good-quality rice is grown but also that the area’s agricultural tradition is safeguarded. Undoubtedly, each grain is the fruit of tireless efforts wrapped in love and care.
In Kapilvastu, agriculture is not merely a profession. It is a culture that has been inherited over generations. GI Tag Kalanamak rice plantation starts with the application of organic manure to enrich the soil and preserve the ecosystem. Traditional water management mechanisms such as bunds and channels are also employed to make efficient use of water and conserve soil.
The process is painstakingly intricate. The seeds are planted with care, and the fields are manually weeded to avoid the use of chemicals. When the time of harvest knocks on the door, the farmers dry and process the rice in a way designed to maintain nutrients and aroma in the rice. As one of the farmers in the region expressed, “As for me, growing Kalanamak rice is no business, but a way of celebrating my culture and conserving our natural environment.”
Farmers’ logic and work ethics are seen from the very first step of the planting process to the final step of packaging process, aimed in ensuring high quality and environmentally friendly practices. It is thus the same reasons that Kalanamak rice become vigilant of its purity and such much care puts into growing them that makes every tiny seed of rice on one’s plate actually mean something important.
Kapilvastu Kalanamak rice is a unique type of rice, which has a shallow glycemic index. This makes it suitable for people who are conscious about their diets. This particular type of rice is friendly for diabetics, while also providing energy to the body on a consistent basis which avoids sudden spikes, something that is definitely not the case with traditional rice.
Because it is loaded with nutrients such as antioxidants, iron, and zinc, Kalanamak rice is regarded as the ultimate superfood. The amount of energy it provides us with makes it suitable to be consumed with other food, adding to its flavor too. Whether being turned into khichdi or teaming it up with vegetables, Kalanamak rice gets the job done.
Moreover, Kalanamak rice is for those who do not want to compromise their health and traditions. This grain is ideal as it retains its taste while also being healthy all at once. Therefore, it can be said that Kalanamak rice is a perfect example of how heritage and health can coexist together.
Once harvested, the process of making low glycemic Kalanamak rice begins and this process is pursued with a lot of care. Leji is cut in Kapilvastu and then each grain is washed gently to retain the natural outline of the rice and to also make sure that the impurities are all removed. To prevent humidity during excess sun exposure, grains are dried and locked through controlled procedures which allows enhancement of aroma and other nutrients within the grain after the harvesting process.
An important step is the packing. In order to safeguard the characteristics of Kalanamak rice like its low GI, soft texture and good aroma, eco-friendly substances are employed by farmers for packing the rice.
It’s easy to see that Kalanamak rice is a genetically healthy strain of rice with low glycemic index properties. However, this endorsement stems from more than just health concerns, it is also about supporting the farmers of Kapilvastu. Kalanamak rice is an ancient strain of rice and its cultivation is biocultural within the farming communities practicing it.
Through organizations and startups, these farmers can trade their goods, practice organic farming, and market their produce on a global scale. Not only does this advance their handwork into sensible income, but it also ensures that the culture and history of Kalanamak Rice survive for future generations.
Amalfarm collaborates with the farmers ( Farmer Producer Organisation) of Siddhartha Nagar to market the Kalanamak rice variety which is known for its black husk (kala) and salty (namak) taste. Amalfarm is focused on supporting traditional farming practices and ensuring fair market pricing which would in turn guarantee the quality, taste and authenticity of Kalanamak rice.
Thus, Amalfarm helps local farmers to reach wider markets across the world without losing their own culture and history along with Kalanamak rice. How about that for pricing! Each grain tells the story of the rituals and the painstaking efforts of our farmers. One bite of this rice and you are instantly teleported to Kapilvastu.
हर दाने में छिपी है परंपरा की महक और मेहनत की कहानी। काला नमक चावल, सिर्फ स्वाद नहीं, ये कपिलवस्तु की विरासत का एहसास है।
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