Mangaluru: Tulu Nadu’s signature delicacies—neer dosa, chicken sukka, fish fry, ghee rice, kebabs, and sajjige rotti—are delighting food lovers in Delhi, with long queues at the stall of women entrepreneurs from Dakshina Kannada at the ongoing Saras Ajeevika Mela.

The national fair, organised by the Union Ministry of Rural Development, is being held at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium to provide a platform for products and cuisine promoted by rural women through self-help groups (SHGs). Now in its first week, the mela has seen the Nandini Stree Shakti Group from Dakshina Kannada district emerge as a clear crowd-puller with their authentic coastal flavours.

Women-led stall draws attention

“It was always our dream to showcase Tulu Nadu’s traditional cuisine to people beyond Karnataka. Our neer dosa and chicken sukka have received an overwhelming response. Many ask for recipes, and some customers return the next day for more,” said Sridevi Chettiar of Ekkur, who is leading the four-member team.

The stall is notable for being run entirely by women—Sridevi, Shobha, Lakshmi, and Divya—without male assistance. “We strictly follow cleanliness, punctuality, and use organic ingredients. We report by 8.30 am and ensure everything is ready by 11 am. While other stalls often have men helping, ours is fully women-managed,” Sridevi added with pride.

From SHG to entrepreneurship

Participation in the mela is facilitated through a mobile application where SHGs are nominated and evaluated. Selected groups are supported by their Zilla Panchayats, which cover travel expenses.

“The Sanjeevini self-help group has taught us not only financial independence but also how to confidently interact with people in urban settings. From sourcing ingredients daily to cooking fresh meals, we do everything ourselves,” Sridevi said, noting that while they have participated in fairs across Karnataka, this is their first national-level showcase in Delhi.

The group will continue at the mela until September 25 before returning home.

Symbol of culture and empowerment

As Delhiites line up for a taste of Mangaluru’s coastal cuisine, the humble neer dosa has become more than a dish—it represents cultural pride, women’s empowerment, and the entrepreneurial spirit of coastal Karnataka.