Daijiworld Media Network – Karkala (MS)

Karkala, Jun 25: It is usual for stone mushrooms to get sprouted as soon as the first showers of monsoon fall on the ground at the plateau region of Malnad. However, this year the monsoon has been delayed due to Biparjoy cyclone. So the stone mushrooms have sprouted late this year.

For stone mushroom lovers beginning of the monsoon is the most awaited time. They go in groups with pointed wood, knives and baga to collect the sprouted stone mushrooms. People mostly living on the edge of forests like Ellare, Shirlalu, Kervashe, Miyaru, Hosmaru Eedu and Bajagoli of Karkala, Muniyalu, Mudradi and Nadpalu of Hebri venture out in search of the stone mushrooms.

Last year, stone mushrooms were sold at Rs 800 to Rs 1000 for a standard cup (SERU). This year as the monsoon has been delayed, the yield is less. The price is likely to touch Rs 1000 to 1500. In the last two years, as it rained during the summer season, stone mushrooms entered the market before the actual monsoon began. However, this year the temperature was high in coastal districts and so the stone mushrooms have sprouted late.

People who have tasted stone mushrooms are willing to pay up to Rs 2000 for a measure of cup also. People living in Mumbai and Bengaluru have already booked the commodity. However, stone mushrooms are not available as per demand says Mahaveera Jain, a merchant of Karkala.

The unique stone mushrooms that are available mostly in Karkala and Hebri taluks have different tastes. They are used to make sambar, dry and vegetables dishes. They live only for a day. The mushrooms turn to black on the very next day.