Guwahati: ZestFest, a celebration dedicated to the flavours and cultural significance of the popular Khasi mandarin orange of the northeast state of Meghalaya, captivated the attendees with a burst of citrusy excitement that spanned over four days which began on December 14 and concluded on December 17 this year. This unique event is aimed at showcasing the rich heritage and zestful traditions associated with Meghalaya’s Khasi mandarin orange.


The ZestFest, which was held in different malls of Karnataka’s capital city Bengaluru, showcased the flavours and cultural richness of the Khasi mandarin oranges, bringing together the local farmers, businesses and communities in a vibrant celebration. The event witnessed the presence of Meghalaya Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, who graced the event as a special guest, as per a press release.


“The festival served as a platform for the farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and the farmer companies, to showcase their famous produce in a city like Bengaluru. The market conditions were favourable for the farmers to dedicate their efforts, given the government's unwavering commitment to investing in introducing and empowering technology-based practices for improved agricultural growth,” Minister Lyngdoh said.


“This initiative was aimed at preparing the agricultural produce for both the national and the international markets. I encouraged the young sellers who were present to step forward as numerous opportunities await them and the government is dedicated to providing continuous support. During the event, we witnessed cultural exposure as even Karnataka has the presence of different tribal groups. Despite differences, there is a cultural unity reflected in their attire and vibrant dances, echoing our own cultural richness. This integration was crucial for our collective progress and understanding,” the Minister added.


Highlighting Meghalaya’s rich agricultural heritage, the ZestFest showcased the succulent Khasi mandarin oranges, renowned for their unparalleled flavour and vibrant zest. The event was aimed at showcasing the exceptional quality and distinctive taste of these locally grown oranges, emphasising the region’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and culinary excellence, the release said.


In addition to the culinary extravaganza, the ZestFest offered a cultural immersion into the world of Khasi mandarin oranges, including a display of a wide variety of fresh produce, with a focus on juicy oranges and related products. In the fest, the visitors witnessed live demonstrations of orange harvesting techniques and explored the unique cultural showcase inspired by the vibrant citrus fruit, it stated.


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The ZestFest is not just a celebration of Khasi mandarin oranges but a tribute to the hardworking farmers and the rich agricultural landscape of Meghalaya. It beautifully encapsulated the essence of community and agriculture. It recognised and applauded the dedication of the northeastern state’s local farmers, who play a pivotal role in cultivating the exquisite oranges that grace the state, the statement mentioned.


The release further said that the event served as a platform to shine a spotlight on the farmer’s relentless efforts, resilience and the vital contribution they make to the community and appreciate the hard work that goes into every orange that the people enjoy. It not only promoted Meghalaya’s agricultural heritage but also boosted tourism and the economy, providing a platform for local businesses to thrive.


Earlier this month, the Meghalaya Directorate of Horticulture and the Meghalaya State Agricultural Marketing Board in a momentous ceremony, flagged off 20 metric tons of the Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Khasi mandarin oranges to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a significant milestone for the hill state’s rich agricultural diversity.


The writer is a senior independent journalist covering the Northeast.


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