Advocate from Mangalore Turns Terrace into Thriving Jasmine Farm, Inspires Urban Farming
Kirana Devadiga, a passionate advocate from Mangalore, has transformed an abandoned terrace into a blooming jasmine garden, illustrating the power of urban farming. What began as a little experiment during the COVID-19 pandemic has grown into a successful business, providing Kirana with both financial and personal joy.
Kirana, like many others during the lockdown, discovered that she had more free time and chose to put her underutilised balcony space to good use. She started with 90 Udupi jasmine saplings and bought pots, fertiliser, and other materials from local sellers. Her passion for agriculture, combined with her desire to make the best use of her space, motivated her to make her idea a reality.
What started as a simple hobby quickly evolved into an unexpected source of revenue. Over time, the jasmine plants flourished, and Kirana began to harvest up to six "attes" of jasmine throughout the blooming season. Each "atte" holds roughly 800 buds, and the fragrant flowers rapidly drew the interest of local customers. Recently, she sold one "atte" for ₹1,250, resulting in monthly earnings of up to ₹85,000, a considerable boost for any home-based business.
Kirana's story is about tenacity and determination, as well as financial success. Despite receiving mockery from certain quarters when she first started, she persisted. Credit for her terrace farming skills goes to YouTube videos and nursery operators who guided her through the early phases of planting and care. Her journey via trial and error exemplifies the strength of tenacity in the face of scepticism.
Her jasmine venture's success acts as an inspiration to many people, particularly those who live in cities and may believe they lack the room or knowledge to start a garden. Kirana's tale has inspired many interested in learning more about terrace gardening. Her success demonstrates that, with a little imagination, urban farming can be a sustainable and profitable business, even in a metropolis like Mangalore.
Furthermore, Kirana's enterprise highlights the expanding trend of urban farming, in which city inhabitants are increasingly using their terraces, balconies, and even small backyards to grow fruits, vegetables, and flowers. This shift towards self-sustainability not only produces fresh vegetables, but it also fosters a sense of connection with nature—an important component in today's fast-paced, concrete society.
Kirana thinks that by continuing to gather and sell her jasmine flowers, she can inspire others to pursue their passions and realise the untapped potential of their areas. "It's never too late to start something new," she adds, encouraging others to trust in themselves and take the first step, no matter how impossible the dream appears.
Kirana's success serves as a reminder that even basic ideas, such as transforming a terrace into a garden, can blossom into something absolutely spectacular. Anyone with the correct expertise, persistence, and a love of nature can make the most of their location and convert their passion into a profitable business.
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