Meet the Farmer: Eco bazaar highlights organic food and sustainable living in Chennai

Children often ask where things come from, their curiosity prompting endless questions about the world around them. A visit to the Eco Bazaar this weekend may offer some answers. The event aims to help children and families understand where their food comes from. Radhika Rammohan, co-founder of re-Store, a non-profit organic and safe food store founded in 2008, says the ‘Meet the Farmer’ initiative will bring together ten organic farmers to sell fresh vegetables and fruits.

“We know carrots are grown in the hills. But how many seasons can they be harvested in a year? What effort goes into growing them? How are they protected from pests like rabbits without causing harm? What profit does a farmer make?” she asks. “Visitors can engage directly with farmers, ask questions, and understand the philosophy behind organic farming.”

Walking through the eco-bazaar also offers a chance to connect with the stories and people behind everyday food. “Touching and feeling fresh produce can be a fulfilling experience. The idea is to encourage people to look deeper into what goes into organic farming and to understand the farmer’s perspective,” she says.

The bazaar will also feature craft workshops for both children and adults. With prior registration, participants can take part in palm leaf craft, block printing, art, and coconut shell craft sessions. Visitors can shop for sustainable home décor products such as palm leaf crafts, clay cooking utensils, terracotta items, and handloom garments by Tula. A mending café has also been introduced, where visitors can get their outfits altered or repaired by on-site tailors. For gardening enthusiasts, there will be a dedicated section selling compost, potting soil, seeds, panchakavyam, and tools.

The event offers an opportuity for farmers to meet their customers.
| Photo Credit:
VELANKANNI RAJ B

The food stall will feature a variety rice made with heritage grains, sweets prepared using karupatti (palm jaggery), vegetable dishes, and natural health drinks such as padhaneer (fresh palm nectar) and elaneer (tender coconut water), encouraging healthier eating habits among the younger generation.

@re-Store, Kottivakkam. March 28, 10am to 6pm. To participate in the craft workshops, priced at ₹500 per person, 10 to 11.30am or 11.30 to 1pm, register by calling 9840571842. Visitors are requested to bring their own bags, as none will be provided at the bazaar. A folk dance performance is scheduled for 4pm