On Saturday, August 2, 2025, approximately 25 farming enthusiasts, including students, gathered at ReStore organic food store in Kottivakkam on ECR to engage in hands-on agricultural activities. Participants learned how to create a nutrient-rich soil mix using compost and red earth, and were taught the crucial method of soaking seeds before planting.
Among them were Class 6 students Vinay Vishwanath and Sai Krishna Karthik from Mambakkam, who actively participated in mixing soil. They shared that they regularly care for plants like tulsi, omavalli, and keerai at home. Class 7 student Sharan Govindaraj, who hails from Villupuram, expressed his familiarity with various plants, stating, “We have roses and marudhani at home.” After their training session, the children were eager to take seeds home for planting.
Volunteer Karthik provided valuable insights on the proper growth methods, explaining that crops like tomatoes and brinjal thrive better when initially grown as seedlings in smaller pots before being transplanted into larger ones. This practical knowledge resonates with urban farmers looking to cultivate their green thumbs.
At Kazhani Farms in Valmiki Nagar, founder and urban farmer Gokulnath Natesan shared plans for a community planting event starting Sunday, August 3. “All farmers have this ritual twice a year, Aadi Pattam-and also on Bhogi, which is Thai Pattam. With the recent light rains, the summer heat has dissipated, allowing beneficial microbes to resurface. This creates a perfect environment for tender saplings and seeds,” he noted, linking traditional practices with modern urban farming.
Additionally, Agani Organic Farm in West Tambaram and Aram Thinai have teamed up to launch the “Weekend Vivasayi” program, designed to offer participants an immersive experience in farm life. Scheduled for every Sunday throughout Aadi, this initiative encourages urban dwellers to engage in physical labor on the farm, enhancing their understanding of food production. “We aim to provide simple meals, and participants can also bring their own food, plates, and water,” remarked G. Karthik from Aram Thinai.
Ananthoo of the Safe Food Alliance emphasized the importance of traditional practices among urban farmers, confirming that many wait for the Aadi month to sow seeds. “Sowing during Aadi is a time-honored tradition, not just on farms but in homes as well,” he added.
These initiatives highlight a growing movement among Chennai’s urban population to reconnect with nature and understand the origins of their food. As events continue throughout the month, both novice and seasoned enthusiasts are encouraged to cultivate their agricultural skills, reaffirming a sense of community and sustainability in today’s fast-paced world.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/aadi-pattam-when-city-folks-learn-farming-on-weekends/article69888016.ece
Category : Chennai
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Publish Date: 2025-08-04 16:29:00
