Malavalli (Mandya): Ullas Gowda, a young BCA student and farmer from Kirugavalu village, has drawn attention for selling two prized Bandur breed rams for an impressive ₹1.60 lakh. The rams, just seven months old, were bought by Kumar from Kirugavalu and Kullegowda from Vaddarahalli.

Bandur sheep, renowned for their superior meat quality and rare lineage, are a source of pride and income for breeders in Mandya district. Ullas, who comes from a family deeply rooted in sheep rearing, said, “My grandfather and father Manohar passed down this tradition. I joined them and took extra care of the animals.”

This is not Ullas’ first major sale. A few months earlier, he sold a Bandur ram to a farmer from Shivamogga for ₹1.48 lakh, highlighting the breed’s high market value. Despite the breed’s popularity for its taste, Ullas noted these specific rams were not raised for meat, as Bandur sheep are rare and often preserved for breeding.

His dedication to traditional practices and careful nurturing of the breed have helped keep this regional heritage alive and thriving.