Pink Garlic Legacy: A 200-Year Tradition Thrives in Vasai Amid Challenges
Pink Garlic Legacy: A 200-Year Tradition Thrives in Vasai Amid Challenges
Vasai, Palghar District:
Renowned for its agricultural richness, Vasai taluka is home to diverse farming practices, including flower cultivation, vegetable farming, and fishery. Amidst these, a unique and ancient tradition of cultivating pink garlic has been preserved for over 200 years by the Carvalho family in Marodewadi, Girija village, Vasai West.
Preserving a Legacy
Niklas Carvalho (90), along with his son Anil and daughter-in-law Harshali, has been cultivating pink garlic on two acres of land. This rare variety is exclusive to their farm, making it a prized crop within the region. Despite the challenges of modern farming, the family remains steadfast in their dedication to this centuries-old tradition.
Sustainable Farming Practices
The family uses entirely organic methods, avoiding chemical fertilizers and relying on organic manure. Anil prepares the hard soil with a power tiller, plowing it three to four times before planting each garlic clove carefully.
- Planting Process:Â Each clove is planted half an inch deep and spaced an inch apart.
- Irrigation:Â Precise watering is critical, with adjustments based on weather conditions to prevent rotting or dehydration.
- Growth Cycle:Â Garlic matures in about 90 days, requiring close monitoring for diseases or pests during the growing period.
Challenges in Modern Times
Anil highlighted the growing difficulty of finding laborers for garlic farming, a challenge echoed by many in the agricultural community. Despite their efforts, the family remains uncertain about whether future generations will continue this tradition.
Ayurvedic Importance
Pink garlic is highly valued in Ayurveda for its health benefits. Consuming it with jaggery is believed to aid in various health conditions, while raw cloves are said to help thin the blood. Its distinctive aroma is a hallmark of its presence, often described as “announcing itself,” as noted by Harshali.
A Passion for Preservation
Niklas expressed pride in his son and daughter-in-law for their dedication to this legacy, stating:
“We are committed to preserving this pink garlic variety out of pure passion. However, I remain uncertain about the future of farming and whether this legacy will continue.”
The Carvalho family’s unwavering efforts exemplify a deep respect for tradition and a commitment to sustainable agriculture, ensuring that Vasai’s unique pink garlic remains a cherished symbol of its rich farming heritage.
