The two-day ‘Halasina Mela’ kicked off at the Balambhatta hall in Mangaluru on Saturday, May 18, captivating attendees with a wide array of jackfruit-based delicacies and mango varieties. Organized by Savayava Krushika Grahaka Balaga, the event showcased the versatility of jackfruit, with dishes like Jackfruit Manchurian and jackfruit momos stealing the spotlight.
At the stall of ‘Bhat’s Homemade’, visitors indulged in innovative treats like Jackfruit Manchurian, Halasina Yengai, and Vada Pav, all crafted using the flavorful fruit. Another stall tempted taste buds with momos made from jackfruit, adding a unique twist to the popular snack.
Numerous vendors offered a diverse range of jackfruit-based products, including halwa, milkshakes, ice cream, vacuum-cooked chips, and papad. Farmers from various regions presented different jackfruit varieties such as Chandravati, Rudrakshi, and Ekadasi, alongside local favorites Tuluve and Berke.
In addition to jackfruit delights, the mela also featured an enticing selection of mangoes, including Kesari, Raspuri, Alphanso, Mallika, sourced from Ballari and Ramanagar.
The event wasn’t just about food; attendees also explored a variety of other products, including honey, homemade turmeric, organic soaps and detergents, coco fiber pots, and eco-friendly covers made from corn and tapioca pearl. Sarvesh Rao from Chigaru Nursery showcased an impressive collection of fruit saplings, including 11 varieties of jackfruit and 31 varieties of mango, adding to the mela’s vibrant atmosphere.