Father Gregory Pereira, a dedicated priest of Mangalore Diocese, is known by unique names in every parish he has served. In Bantwal, he was “Papaya Father,” in Narampady, “Kumbalakai Father,” and in Talapady, “Dragon Father.” These affectionate titles honor his commitment to turning church lands into lush green zones with organic farming.
As the pastor of Our Lady of Assumption Church, Talapady, on the Kerala-Karnataka border, Father Pereira has transformed nearly nine acres of barren land into a thriving farm. His organic crops range from papayas and mangoes to dragon fruit, pumpkins, and even a fish pond. His green revolution has spread across multiple parishes, including Modankap, Narampady, Venur, and Allipade.
Parishioners visiting for Sunday Mass don’t just pray—they also collect seeds, buy saplings, and receive farming guidance from the priest to replicate his vision in their homes. His influence extends beyond church premises, inspiring communities across faiths.
Born into a farming family in Meremajalu village in 1953, Father Pereira was ordained in 1981. His agricultural expertise has earned him recognition as an icon of sustainable farming. Priests from other dioceses visit him to learn his organic techniques.
“I don’t farm for my kitchen alone. Our harvest supports parishioners, and even institutions like Fr Mullers Medical College buy our produce,” he shares. Despite his farming dedication, his doors—like his fields—are always open to all.
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