Organic Mandya : Farmers Growing Healthy Food

Mandya, a district in Karnataka, is well known for its sugarcane and farming culture. For decades, farmers worked hard, but the heavy use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides eventually weakened the soil, raised farming costs, and pushed many farmers into debt. Farming lost its joy and became a burden. Against this backdrop, the idea of Organic Mandya was born—not just as a shop, but as a movement to revive natural farming and promote healthy living.

How It Began

Around 2012, led by Girish Bharadwaj, a group of people initiated Organic Mandya with the motto: “Healthy farmers, healthy food, healthy society.” Farmers were encouraged to use natural fertilizers such as cow dung, compost, and homemade pest repellents instead of chemicals. The vision was to restore soil fertility, protect health, and reduce farming costs, thereby creating a sustainable system.

From Farm to Plate

Organic Mandya opened stores, especially in Bengaluru, selling rice, fruits, vegetables, jaggery, pulses, spices, and snacks—all grown without chemicals. This direct link between farmers and customers cut out middlemen, ensuring farmers earned fair prices while consumers accessed safe, nutritious food. Beyond sales, the stores also educated people about the benefits of organic farming, reminding them that choosing organic supports farmers as well.

Helping Farmers

The movement significantly improved the lives of farmers. Many, once burdened by debt, are now healthier, more confident, and financially stable. For example, Ramesh from Srirangapatna shared that earlier he spent most of his income on chemicals, but now he makes compost at home, lowering costs and strengthening his crops. Such stories reflect how organic practices have renewed both land and livelihoods.

Building Bridges

Organic Mandya created a bridge between villages and cities. Urban consumers gained access to clean food, while rural farmers received fair returns. Farmers often visit stores to meet customers, building trust and a sense of friendship rather than just business transactions.

Beyond Farming

The initiative also created jobs for Mandya’s youth in farming, packaging, and retail, reducing migration to cities. Workshops in schools and villages further spread awareness about healthy soil, safe food, and sustainability.

Challenges and Future

The shift was not easy—farmers feared losing yields, and organic food’s higher cost limited access. Yet, patience and growing trust have helped expand the movement. Today, Organic Mandya is a well- recognized brand in Bengaluru and aims to reach other cities.