Reviving the Ancient Medicinal Navara Red Rice

Rice growing scenes in the Hyderabad Collective

They say food is medicine, and it holds particularly true for staple rice varieties such as the Navara Red Rice – a nearly forgotten gem from Kerala being rediscovered in the rocky scapes of Telangana.

“Navara” in Malayalam refers to a traditional and revered variety of rice known for its deep red hue and impressive health benefits. Besides being a staple for many in Kerala, it offers a unique cultural and medicinal story as preserved by the indigenous people.

In Kerala, Navara Red Rice is not just a grain; it’s a cultural icon esteemed as “medicinally superior” in Ayurvedic texts. Historically, Navara has been esteemed as it’s integral to specialised Ayurvedic treatments like Panchakarma, which draw people worldwide to Kerala. Often called “fragrant gold,” it plays a significant role in various festivals and symbolises prosperity and health. Its deep red colour and nutritional profile make it a superior choice for the health-conscious today.

Navara Red Rice, known for its short 60-day cultivation period, thrives in Kerala’s semi-dry conditions. However, challenges like fragmented landholdings, high production costs, and the migration of farm labour have threatened its cultivation over the years. The shift to high-yielding varieties further endangered Navara’s distinct identity.

In an attempt to retain its legacy, Ayurveda-centric farmers are working to revive Navara rice. Organisations like Navara Eco-Farm have dedicated efforts to purify the seeds, ensuring the rice retains its unique properties. The revival involves pure line selection, conservation, organic and natural farming, and Geographic Indication (GI) registration for Navara rice.

Meanwhile, at Beforest’s 132-acre Hyderabad Collective in the arid Deccan Plateau, a parallel revival of this Navara red rive is unfolding. Here, rice farming focuses on indigenous, nearly extinct, heirloom varieties like Navara, following permaculture principles. But it’s not just about farming; it’s a mission to revive barren lands and strengthen our bond with the soil. By blending old wisdom with modern science, the Navara Red Rice grown here symbolises sustainability and vitality, going beyond regular organic farming.

Health Benefits of Navara Red Rice

Navara Red Rice is celebrated for its sweet taste, cooling properties, and easy digestibility. It is particularly beneficial for infants with low weight, as it is invigorating and stabilising. When cooked with milk and herbs, Navara rice can treat internal wounds. Its gruel is effective in managing diabetes, making it a diabetic-friendly option.

The rice bran oil extracted from Navara treats arthritis, paralysis, and neurological disorders. Additionally, consuming Navara helps lower cholesterol levels. During the monsoon season, its “kanji” (rice gruel) is used to prevent and cure various ailments. Navara rice is also rich in iron, enhancing its health benefits.

Besides its nutritional content, Navara red rice shows incredible versatility in its usage. While the grains are consumed, other parts of the plant are equally valuable. The bran oil has medicinal uses, rice flakes are a popular snack, and straw can be utilised in various ways. Even rice powder from Navara is used in culinary and medicinal applications.

By choosing Navara, you support the revival of a nearly extinct rice variety and embrace a healthier, more balanced diet. Its unique taste, nutritional benefits, and cultural significance make Navara Red Rice a true treasure. Celebrate and sustain this precious gift from nature, ensuring it remains a part of our lives for generations to come through Bewild Navara Red Rice.