Udupi Sode Vadiraj Mutt seer Sri Vishwavallabha Tirtha Swamiji speaks to reporters in Udupi on November 5, 2026. | Photo Credit: UMESH S SHETTIGAR In the runup to his second Paryaya at Sri Krishna Mutt, Udupi Sode Vadiraj Mutt seer Sri Vishwavallabha Tirtha Swamiji will perform the Bale Muhurta in his mutt on November 29, followed by a three-day Kadali Vishwa Darshana Mela till December 1 to spread the importance of banana farming, its diverse varieties, scientific farming methods, and value-added products.Speaking to reporters in Udupi on November 5, Sri Vishwavallabha said the mela is to be organised near the Krishna Mutt parking area. Over 10,000 persons, including farmers and students, are expected to attend.The seer said Sri Vadiraja Tirtha Swamiji, by whose name the mutt came to be called subsequently, had introduced unique guidelines to the Paryaya system for the Ashta Mutts.
The Bale Muhurta was significant in this heritage and, therefore, the Kadali Mela is organised to give the tradition a contemporary agricultural purpose.The Bale Muhurta would be performed from 6.30 a.m. in the Sode Mutt at Udupi by planting banana, sugarcane, and Tulasi plants.Over 150 banana varietiesSri Vishwavallabha said the organisers intend to introduce over 150 varieties of banana seedlings during the mela even as more than 100 varieties of banana fruits would be on display and sale. While there are over 500 varieties of banana across India, some varieties do not have specific names.
One such unique variety would be given a name during the mela.Various food and processed banana products, useful items made from banana leaves and fibre, would be exhibited and sold. The possibilities of converting various parts of banana plant into valuable products would be introduced through demonstrations.Free stallsThe seer said around 40 exhibition and sales stalls would be set up at the fair.
Bananas, various varieties, agricultural products, value-added items, handicraft, and agricultural technologies will be showcased. Stall-holders would be provided free space and necessary infrastructure for three days to encourage farmers and entrepreneurs to showcase their produce and products.Research InstitutionsFarmers and entrepreneurs from various parts of the country, including Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Jalgaon in Maharashtra, would display and sell their products.Scientists from National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB), Tiruchirappalli, would share information on new research, technology, and improved farming practices while scientists from the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysuru would provide guidance on banana processing, value-added products, and food processing technologies, the seer said.
Published - November 05, 2026 03:34 pm IST