Sabala food festival draws 50,000 visitors in Visakhapatnam

The Sabala food festival in Visakhapatnam highlights natural farming, traditional diets, and sustainable living, attracting 50,000 visitors.

The second edition of the Sabala Bhojanala Panduga, a community-led food festival centred on natural farming and sustainable living, was held from April 1 to 5 at the Simhachalam Goshala in Visakhapatnam, drawing an estimated 50,000 visitors over five days.

Sabala Bhojanala Panduga was held at the Simhachalam Goshala in Visakhapatnam from April 1 to 5. | Photo Credit: Paul Nicodemus

Launched in 2024 under the initiative of Vijay Ram, an advocate of natural farming and organic food systems, the festival draws inspiration from agriculturist Subhash Palekar. Farmers from Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts have been central to the initiative, which aims to create awareness and address misconceptions surrounding traditional food practices.

Sabala Bhojanala Panduga was held at the Simhachalam Goshala in Visakhapatnam from April 1 to 5. | Photo Credit: Paul Nicodemus

Many people assume that natural foods are difficult to cook or inaccessible, a hesitation that has adversely affected farmers who have shifted to organic methods, said Chalapathi Rao, a member of the organising team. He added that the festival was conceived to bridge this gap and foster a direct connection between farmers and consumers.

A diverse range of dishes prepared using indigenous ingredients, including millets, grains, lentils and vegetables, was served during the festival. Organisers said more than 50 varieties of traditional seeds and rice were showcased through the menu, with different preparations introduced each day. The food was served free of cost, with visitors encouraged to make voluntary contributions.