Mysore/Mysuru: The world of bananas is vast. From birth to death, bananas are an integral part of life, with hundreds of varieties differing in taste, colour, size and height. As the birthplace of bananas, India boasts hundreds of varieties. In the forests of North-eastern States, wild bananas dominate the landscape.

Karnataka is home to unique varieties such as Kamalapura Red Banana, Elakki Baale, Nanjangud Rasabaale, Kallu Baale, Naati Baale, Boodu Baale, Hampi Sugandhi, Sakkare Baale, Hulibaale and Chukke Baale. Madarangi grows to impressive heights, with its stems resembling pillars. Kodagu’s ‘Finger Banana’ variety fruit resembles like human fingers. 

Unfortunately, the arrival of commercial varieties like Robusta and Cavendish has led to the decline of native varieties.

To celebrate the diversity of native bananas, Sahaja Samrudha, in collaboration with Keystone Foundation and  Using Diversity, is organising a Banana Festival at Nanjaraja Bahaddur Choultry in Mysuru on Nov. 8 and 9 from 10 am to 8.30 pm.

Prasad Rama Hegade from Sirsi, who conserves more than 100 banana varieties, will exhibit rare Red Banana, Ice-cream Banana, Kadali and others. B.P. Ravi Shankar of Ponnampet will display rare Finger Banana.

On Nov. 9, ICAR-JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, will host a banana cooking contest. Food lovers can make recipes from banana at home and bring to the festival  at 12 noon.

On Nov. 9 at 10.30 am, Kisan Bandi will host art competition for children (5-12 years), who can draw paintings on banana culture, cultivation and usage. For details call: 90086-03222.