Sullia: Kuriyaje Tirumaleshwar Bhat - Agriculturist with Different Perspective

Pics: Tejeshwar Kundalpady
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (PS/SB)

Sullia, Dec 30: When we say farmer, there is a general perception that they tend to engage in common agricultural activities such as looking after plantations or paddy fields. Mostly the native farmers do not indulge themselves in any activities other than which is agriculture-related. As a matter of exception, here is a farmer, who has different perspective on farming.

Honoured with the ‘state level agriculture’ award, Kuriyaje Thirumaleshwara Bhat, resident of Bellare Kodiyala village in Sullia taluk is an agriculturist who has nurtured a mini garden at his home, which has now become a centre of attraction. He has now become a model for many of the farmers.

Though the award has brought fame for Bhat, it is his initiative in fostering a mini garden that made him different from other farmers. As it is not yet known to the outer world as much, here is an effort to showcase his unique interest even after being an orthodox farmer.

Thirumaleshwar Bhat whenever finds free time is engaged in making a mini garden. One can find the garden on stepping into his compound. He has built an artificial pond wherein artificial crocodile and crane are kept in order to give the feel of a natural landscape. There are lotus plants in the pond. More than 350 cactus plants are grown in pots. The landscape looks attractive and mesmerizes all.

However, he has struggled a lot to collect cactus plants. Decorative stones which are arranged near the pond in a systematic manner also draws the attention of garden lovers. Electric bulbs have also been placed in the garden. The plants with varied colours of flowers too are seen in the garden. In the vicinity one can also watch fish tank wherein different species of fish are fed.

Bhat too enthusiastically joins in if anyone comes to visit his garden. Since he has got great experience in agriculture science, he tends to share it with young minds. The way the garden look now is only due to his effort and interest. I am happy to nurture the mini garden amidst the routine farming works, he adds.