Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)
Udupi, May 22: Mattugulla variety of Eggplant that is grown only in the district of Udupi is renowned for its taste all over the state. This year the farmers have got a bumper yield of the vegetable that is most sought after in making sambar.
Mattu Eggplant which is grown in Katapady Mattu area of the district has got geographical identification (GI) recognition also. Most of the agriculturists of Mattu area are dependent on this vegetable for their livelihood.
The sowing of seeds for Mattu Eggplant crop is done in the month of October. The vegetable is sold at Rs 200 per kilogram in the market. This year due to the delayed rain, Mattu Gulla is available even in the month of May.
Now the plants of Mattu eggplant are removed by the agriculturists as they are preparing for paddy related work as monsoon is going to arrive in the first week of June.
Every year the Mattu Gulla growers of Katapadi Mattu were losing their crop due to incessant rains in summer months. However, this year they have got returns for their investment as it did not rain during the summer months.