Mohammed, a dedicated sickle seller from Puttur in Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka, has become a local legend with his long-standing business. For over 40 years, Mohammed has been providing the residents of Puttur with hand-crafted sickles, a tool essential for agricultural work. His sickles, which range in price from Rs 450 to Rs 6,000, are renowned for their quality and craftsmanship. Made from pure iron and known locally as Milavu, each sickle is meticulously hand-crafted, including its wooden handle.
The popularity of Mohammed’s sickles is intertwined with the local festival that has been a significant event in Puttur since 1879. Held every Monday, this festival attracts farmers from neighboring regions like Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, and Kodagu (Coorg), who come to sell their produce. Mohammed’s sickles are a staple at this vibrant market, where various businesses, including his, flourish.
Mohammed sources his sickles from Guthigaru in Sullia, another taluk in the Dakshina Kannada district. Despite selling on footpaths and lacking a formal shop setup, his sickles are well-regarded for their durability and sharpness. Wrapped in newspaper for protection, these tools remain a preferred choice for many.
The sickle is a fundamental tool in agriculture, featuring a curved steel blade attached to a wooden handle, designed for harvesting crops and cutting vegetation. Mohammed’s dedication and craftsmanship continue to uphold this essential tool’s tradition and value.
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