Paddy variety conservationist B K Devarao felicitated

Shwetha S

Udupi, Oct 26: B K Devarao, the agriculturist who grows over 170 paddy varieties, was felicitated at Udupi Sri Krishna Matha on Monday.

Devarao hails from Mittabagilu village of Belthangady Taluk and has been preserving various indigenous paddy varieties for over three decades. The number in his collection has been increasing over the years and now he has over 170 verities. All these are grown organically by Devaro and his family without using any chemicals.

Sri Eesha Priya Teertha Shripadaru, who recognizes such initiatives, identified the achievement of Sri Devarao and felicitated him on the occasion of Vijayadashami.

B K Devarao and his wife were felicitated by Sri Eesha Priya Teertha Shripadaru today. The programme was attended by Sri Vishwapriya Teertha Sripadaru of Adamaru Matha, Sri Vidyadheesha Teertha Sripadaru of Palimaru Matha, and Vidyasagara Teertha Swamiji of Krishnapura Matha.

Devarao’s son B K Parameshwar gave a talk on the paddy varieties and the chemical-free methods used to grow them.

‘Hosa Akki Uta,’ or ‘Puddar,’ marking the harvest season is held at Udupi Sri Krishna Matha on Vijayadashami day. Madhwa Jayanthi, the birth anniversary of Sri Madhwacharya is celebrated on this day.

Paddy ears are tied in Krishna Matha and other Asta Maths. The rice from the newly harvested crop is used for lunch on this day.