In Pics: A Celebration of Karnataka’s 10 Best-Kept Secrets — From Sugarcane to Silk Sarees
(Featured image courtesy Canva and KaleNene)
Karnataka, a state celebrated for its rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers a kaleidoscope of flavours, crafts, and traditions that define its essence. From the busy streets of Bengaluru to the tranquil coffee plantations of Coorg, each district tells its own story through its products, foods, and crafts.
In this piece, we explore 10 districts in Karnataka, each known for a specific gem that contributes to the state’s cultural and economic fabric.
1. Belagavi: Kunda
Kunda is widely served in temples during festivals. Picture source: Archana’a kitchen
Belagavi’s kunda is a sweet delicacy loved across Karnataka. Made from milk, sugar, and a touch of cardamom, this melt-in-the-mouth treat is often served during festivals and special occasions. The town’s kunda has earned a reputation for its rich, creamy texture and distinctive flavour, making it an integral part of Belagavi’s culinary identity.
2. Bidar: Bidriware
Bidriware is an intricate art form done with metals. Picture source: Housenama
Bidar is renowned for its centuries-old craft, ‘Bidriware’, a unique metal handicraft. This intricate art form involves inlaying silver onto blackened alloy, creating stunning designs on jewellery, trays, vases, and more. Reflecting the region’s cultural history and artisanal excellence, Bidriware continues to be highly prized.
3. Vijayapura: Pomegranates
Pomegranates from Vijayapura have a deep red colour. Picture source: VGR Gardens
Vijayapura is famous for its juicy, sweet pomegranates, often considered among the best in India. The district’s soil and climate create the ideal conditions for cultivating this fruit, and local farmers take great care in nurturing the orchards. The pomegranates from Vijayapura are known for their deep red colour and sweet-tart taste, making them a regional delicacy.
4. Davanagere: Benne dosa
Benne Dosa has a worldwide appeal for its soft yet crispy texture. Picture source: Cook with Kushi
Davanagere is synonymous with the iconic benne dosa, a buttery, crispy variant of the traditional dosa. This savoury treat, often served with a dollop of fresh butter, has made the district famous for its distinct flavour. Its crispy texture combined with the melt-in-the-mouth softness makes it a must-try dish, attracting food lovers from across the region.
5. Kalaburagi: Toor dal
Toor dal is used to make khichdi, stuffed parathas, and dosas. Picture source: Organo farm store
Kalaburagi, located in the heart of Karnataka’s agricultural belt, is best known for its high-quality toor dal, or pigeon pea. This protein-rich legume is a staple in Indian kitchens, and Kalaburagi’s dry climate and fertile soil make it the perfect location for its cultivation. The dal from this region is prized for its rich taste and high yield, contributing to the local economy.
6. Coorg: coffee
It is said that Coorg produces around 33% of the country’s coffee production. Picture source: Canva.
Coorg, often called the ‘Coffee Capital of India’, is famous for its aromatic coffee plantations. The region’s lush, hilly terrain and favourable weather conditions make it ideal for growing coffee beans, particularly Arabica and Robusta varieties. Coorg’s coffee is known for its smooth, rich flavour with a hint of spice, making it a favourite among coffee enthusiasts worldwide.
7. Mandya: Sugar
Mandya is often called the ‘Sugar Bowl of Karnataka’, thanks to its widespread sugarcane cultivation. The fertile soil and abundant water sources allow for a booming sugar industry, with the district being home to several sugar mills. Mandya’s sugar is renowned for its purity and quality, making it an essential ingredient in many regional sweets and dishes.
8. Chikkaballapur: Wine grapes
Chikkaballapur also have vineyards and breweries around. Picture source: Karnataka.com
Chikkaballapur has carved out a reputation for its excellent wine grapes, grown in its sun-soaked vineyards. The district’s dry, well-drained soil and favourable climate contribute to the production of high-quality grapes, which are used to make exquisite wines. Chikkaballapur’s wine grapes are known for their sweetness and flavour, attracting both winemakers and connoisseurs from across India.
9. Mysuru: Sandalwood products
Mysuru is known for its fragrant and pure sandalwood products. Picture source: Naturalis.
Mysuru has long been associated with the fragrant aroma of sandalwood. The district is home to some of the best sandalwood trees, which are used to create a variety of products, including oils, incense, and soaps. Mysuru’s sandalwood is prized for its rich fragrance and high quality, and the district’s traditional processing methods ensure its worldwide demand.
10. Chitradurga: Molakalmuru sarees
Chitradurga is renowned for Molakalmuru sarees, known for their exquisite handwoven designs and rich silk texture. These sarees, characterised by their intricate patterns and vibrant colours, are woven using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. The Molakalmuru sarees are a symbol of the region’s cultural heritage and are highly valued for their elegance and craftsmanship.
Edited by Khushi Arora
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