A Farmer’s Journey from Tradition to Transformation
In the heart of Mandya, known as the “Sugar Bowl of Karnataka,” a quiet revolution in farming is taking place - led by local organic farmer Mr. Krishnappa.
A proud Gram Panchayat Member and lifelong cultivator, Krishnappa has turned his small farm into a thriving hub of chemical-free, nutritious vegetable cultivation that feeds both his community and the environment.
His story, featured in “Mandya Organic Farmer Krishnappa’s Vegetable Bed” by Organic Mandya, is more than a farming tale - it’s a movement towards healthier soil, better food, and sustainable livelihoods.
“If you feed the soil, the soil will feed you - that’s the true secret of farming.”
1. Continuing a Family Legacy with Organic Roots
Farming runs deep in Krishnappa’s blood. His family has cultivated vegetables for generations, but he chose a different path - one that aligns with nature instead of chemicals.
Inspired by Madhuchandan Sir of Organic Mandya, Krishnappa made a powerful shift from conventional farming to natural, poison-free cultivation.
This transition not only improved the quality of his produce but also boosted his income and community respect. Today, his farm stands as a model of organic success for hundreds of local farmers.
2. A Diverse and Thriving Vegetable Garden
Krishnappa’s farm is a celebration of biodiversity. He grows over 20–25 varieties of vegetables and greens, ensuring that no corner of his land goes to waste.
Some of the Crops He Cultivates Include:
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Leafy Greens: Palak, Methi, Sabsige, Akkore, Dill, and Mullgire Soppu
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Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, lady’s fingers (okra), beans, brinjal, and gourds
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Legumes and Roots: Drumstick, radish, and local seasonal plants
This diverse approach not only enriches the soil but also provides nutritious, toxin-free food for the community.
“Every crop has its purpose - together, they nourish the soil, the farmer, and the people.”
3. The Power of Cow Dung: Nature’s Best Fertilizer
At the heart of Krishnappa’s farming philosophy lies one sacred element - cow dung manure.
He believes that the cow is the farmer’s best partner. Instead of relying on chemical fertilizers, he enriches his soil using cow dung and cow urine, which are full of beneficial microbes.
Benefits of Cow Dung Manure in Krishnappa’s Farm:
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Enhances seed germination and soil fertility
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Improves plant growth and resistance
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Promotes beneficial microbes for healthy soil
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Acts as a natural pest repellent
According to him, even the weeds that grow from cow dung-enriched soil are edible and valuable, proving that when the soil is pure, everything that grows from it has a purpose.
4. Edible Weeds: Nature’s Hidden Treasure
One of the unique insights Krishnappa shares is about edible weeds - often discarded by modern farmers but treasured in his organic system.
These wild greens, naturally sprouting from healthy soil, are nutritious, medicinal, and income-generating.
Popular Edible Weeds from His Farm:
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Tegani Chiguru – rich in iron and vitamins
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Narebele Soppu – used for traditional dishes and natural healing
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Methi & Palak – household favorites for sambar and stir-fries
He proudly says that every plant on his land is edible, emphasizing the connection between biodiversity and food security.
“In a healthy field, even weeds feed us.”
5. Promoting Traditional Dishes with Homegrown Greens
Krishnappa’s farm isn’t just about cultivation - it’s about preserving Karnataka’s culinary heritage.
Local favorites like Mossoppu Sambar (a mixed leafy-green stew) are prepared using his fresh greens - Palak, Sabsige, Methi, and others.
He encourages families, especially in cities, to grow these greens at home and rediscover traditional recipes instead of depending on unhealthy street food.
Krishnappa’s Message:
“Healthy food doesn’t come from hotels; it grows in your backyard.”
6. Growing Sustainably, Earning Responsibly
Organic farming has not only made Krishnappa’s produce healthier - it has made his farm more profitable and environmentally responsible.
He earns between ₹20,000 to ₹25,000 per harvest cycle while using zero chemicals and minimal plastic.
Instead of plastic packaging, Krishnappa uses teak leaves and natural materials, reducing waste and aligning with eco-friendly values.
His Formula for Success:
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Diverse crops = consistent yield
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Cow-based inputs = low cost
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Eco-packaging = sustainable branding
“Sustainability is not a choice - it’s our duty to the soil and future generations.”
7. Guiding the Next Generation of Farmers
Krishnappa’s farm is open to everyone who wants to learn about organic farming.
He regularly invites young people, students, and fellow farmers to experience how cow dung manure, crop diversity, and natural pest control can create abundant harvests without chemicals.
He believes that the next generation must reconnect with the soil - not just for profit, but for purpose.
“If you love your land, it will never let you go hungry.”
8. Lessons from Krishnappa’s Organic Farm
|
Principle |
Impact |
|
Use cow dung manure |
Enhances soil fertility and plant growth |
|
Grow diverse crops |
Improves income and food security |
|
Avoid chemicals |
Protects soil, health, and the ecosystem |
|
Value edible weeds |
Adds nutrition and reduces waste |
|
Reduce plastic |
Promotes sustainable farming practices |
Krishnappa’s approach proves that organic farming isn’t expensive or difficult - it’s a return to balance, patience, and trust in nature.
Conclusion: A Green Example for Every Farmer
Krishnappa’s farm in Mandya is not just a vegetable bed - it’s a living classroom of sustainability.
From cow dung to leafy greens, every element of his farm tells a story of respect for nature and pride in organic living.
His journey reminds us that the path to prosperity lies not in chemicals, but in careful observation, natural wisdom, and love for the soil.
At Organic Mandya, we celebrate farmers like Krishnappa - heroes who are redefining India’s agricultural future, one green leaf at a time.
“True wealth grows from the soil, not from the store.”
FAQs
1. Who is Krishnappa and where is his farm located?
Krishnappa is an organic farmer from Mandya, Karnataka, who cultivates a wide variety of vegetables and greens using natural methods.
2. What makes his farming method special?
He uses cow dung manure instead of chemical fertilizers, grows 20+ varieties of vegetables, and promotes eco-friendly packaging.
3. How does he earn profit through organic farming?
By growing multiple crops and eliminating chemical costs, Krishnappa earns around ₹20,000–₹25,000 per cycle sustainably.
4. Why does he value edible weeds?
They grow naturally in fertile soil, are nutritious, and can be used for local dishes - turning waste into wealth.
