Traditional tubers of Kunbi tribals on display at Joida

Keri: In the Kali river basin, forest dwellers around the Kali tiger reserve cultivate a variety of tuber crops. These diverse crops have been displayed at the annual Tuber festival at the weekly market in Joida.To escape the religious persecution of the Portuguese regime, Goan tribes migrated and took refuge inside the forested areas of Joida taluka in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district, where they continue to grow nutritious and energy-rich tubers, following the footsteps of their ancestors.“I was enthralled to see a diverse range of tubers of different tastes, colours, shapes and sizes displayed in a special pandal at the Joida market.

The Kunbi tribes of Goa, who migrated centuries ago, have preserved their tradition of growing tubers, providing them with sources of carbohydrates all year round and some income. The display of 40 kg Dioscorea alata (purple yam) was a major attraction,” said Priol resident Datta Naik.“I got the opportunity to learn about the diversity of tubers protected and conserved by tribals for ages, along with the traditional culinary recipes prepared by them.

We also enjoyed nutritious dishes with local flavours,” said Maryanne Lobo, an ayurveda physician from Mapusa.“We have been organising this event to showcase the rich diversity preserved by our ancestors. Every year, the festival attracts researchers and students interested in understanding the diversity of tubers and their nutritional and medicinal values,” said Jayanand Derekar, an organiser of the festival.