You know, some plants have poetry in their names. One such plant is Orithal Tamarai. Orithal Tamarai in Tamil means “one petal lotus,” and the name highlights the one petal tiny flower that grows on the plant, which also gives it the English name “spade flower” because that one petal looks like a spade. Hybanthus enneaspermus is a small perennial herb that is native to the Himalayan region and common in dry, stony landscapes of India, especially across the plains of Eastern Ghats. The leaves, when ground with some water, turn demulcent, forming a gelatinous or oily substance that can soothe inflamed or abraded mucous membranes, forming a protective film and protecting the area from further irritation. Because of its demulcent property, the leaves are traditionally used as an external application for the treatment of wounds. This plant was introduced to me during my cycle yatra, where my host couldn’t stop praising the importance of the herb. It is known to help cure sterility in men, earning it the name “Ratna Purush” in Hindi, “Rathnapurusha” in Sanskrit, and “Purusharathna” in Kannada. In these names, ‘ratna’ means jewel and ‘purush’ means man. Apart from being a cure for sterility, it is traditionally used in the treatment of diarrhea, urinary infections, leucorrhoea, dysuria, and inflammation. The fruit of the plant is known to possess antivenom activity against snake and scorpion stings. Because of the size of the plant, it is difficult to harvest it in large quantities, and especially with the changes in landscape uses, this plant is slowly becoming a rare herb. Imagine a small herb that grows in drier landscapes can be so potent and the best way to identify it is with the single petal, the orithal tamarai. Have you spotted this medicinal herb in your region? Share with us what it is called in your language in the comments! . . . #forgottengreens #cycleyatra #orithaltamarai #ratnapurusha #ratnapurush #hybanthusenneaspermus #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #foragingindia #decolonizefood #indigenouswisdom #traditionalwisdom #healingherbs #herbsofinstagram
•June Workshops• As we welcome monsoons, it is a good opportunity to learn about the edible and medicinal plants growing in your immediate ecology from the comfort of your own homes. Prepare yourself to be a full time forager as the rains brings the earth alive! Swipe to learn more about each of our June workshops! One of the biggest supports you can offer is to help spread the word in your circles, as our work reaches more people through word of mouth. Head to the link in the bio to learn more about each workshop and to register! 🍀 . . . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #forgottengreensworkshop #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #regenerativeagriculture #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood
It’s been a while since we formally introduced who runs the page. So, we decided let’s do it today! Meet the team behind Forgotten Greens! __ Shruti Tharayil (@shrutitharayil ) is the founder of Forgotten Greens, an initiative that works on reviving the fast disappearing traditions of consuming uncultivated greens. She is a freelance writer and educator. Shruti has a penchant for weaving stories at the intersection of biodiversity, caste and food systems. Her world-view is shaped most significantly by her experiences of her journeys with the Indigenous, Dalit, and pastoral communities across Southern India, which has strengthened her narratives and collaborative work. In the beginning of 2024, she did a solo cycle yatra across South India, cycling 700 kms across 3 states, documenting uncultivated greens from different communities and lesser-known food stories. Shruti spends most of her time learning and day dreaming about plants and can be often found squatting on roadsides foraging or clicking pictures of them. __ Mahika Mor (@backpackinguides ) manages Forgotten Greens’s social media. She recently finished her post graduation and is taking a year off from academia before starting her PhD. Her research interests include popular literature, food studies, modern mythology, and feminist literary criticism. Her journey with Forgotten Greens began as an attempt to move from theory towards practice. Mahika is also a travel enthusiast, a yoga facilitator, and a plant mom. She is often found lost in a fantasy novel and dreaming of faraway lands. . . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #cycleyatra #humansofforgottengreens #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #instafood #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood #rewildingindia #rewildingyourdiet
In the 3rd week of my cycle yatra, through a series of contacts, I got in touch with Villarasu, a 23-year-old farmer and plant & herb enthusiast. Actually, you can call him a self-taught herbalist! He took me on a fast-paced wild food & herb walk around his village. The depth of his knowledge was astounding. I had to ask him to speak slowly because his Tamil was much more advanced than mine. Since the age of 8, he has been interested in plants and the traditional knowledge about them. He spends most of his time traveling to villages, hills, and forests to learn from communities. Then, he brings back seeds/plant cuttings and grows them on his farm. He took me through his biodiverse farm, and it was incredible to witness the depth of his self-taught knowledge. He showed me a village lake where an area is completely wild. “I threw some seeds of herbs and planted stem cuttings to rewild this land, and it’s been 4-5 years since then. Look how the whole place has grown into a small forest.” He was right; the area he showed was indeed a mini forest. It’s incredible that a 23-year-old boy single-handedly rewilded it. “This helps with holding water in the soil and keeping it rich. Otherwise, in a water-scarce landscape like ours, summers get very difficult” he added. Meeting a visionary and ecologist like Villarasu was truly something. He continues to do his work quietly in his village. When I was leaving his village, he called his entire extended family to come and meet up and for a group photo. Just to assemble for the group photo it took us 45 mins. It was really funny because everybody wanted to be a part of the photo, and we kept waiting for family members to arrive, and I kept delaying my departure. At the end, it became one of those big Indian goodbyes, and my heart was filled with warmth at their generosity and grace for hosting me. 📍Arani, Tamil Nadu . . . . #forgottengreens #cycleyatra #humansofforgottengreens #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #instafood #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood #rewildingindia #rewildingyourdiet
@shrutitharayil , founder of Forgotten Greens went on a cycle yatra at the start of this year! Here is an excerpt from her travels: __ For a long time, it was a dream to embark on a cycle yatra across South India to (un)learn, document, and taste the lesser-known ingredients, foods, and greens. Finally, in 2024, I took the leap of faith and started pedaling. Oh, what a journey it has been! 700 kms in 47 days, most of it solo, connecting with people’s generosity and abundance. Here’s a small glimpse of the yatra, and we hope to share more stories as we continue forward. Stay tuned! . . . . #forgottengreens #cycleyatra #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #localfoods #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #instafood #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood
Repost • @forgottengreens Inviting you to join us to explore the enchanting world of edible flowers! Flowers have graced our culinary heritage for centuries, offering both medicinal wonders and delightful flavours. With the advent of social media, the world of edible blooms has bloomed like never before. We invite you to join us for an introduction to the world of edible flowers! During the workshop you will: 🌸 Learn to identify flowers that grow in your surroundings. 🌸 Discover creative ways to incorporate edible flowers into your daily meals. 🌸 Gain insights into the cultural and historical significance of edible blooms. Session recordings will be shared for a limited period. Head to the link in bio to register for the workshop! Tag a friend who would love to join you in this flowery adventure 🌺 🗓 Date - 27th & 28th April 🕰 Time - 11 am to 12:30 pm 📍Location - Online . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #regenerativeagriculture #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood
Last week, I hosted a session for the kids at the Summer Camp hosted by the Kerala Museum in Kochi, and it was a treat! One thing I love about working with children is the curiosity and openness they exhibit. They snacked on each wild edible I introduced; some complained about how bitter some of the leaves were but still enthusiastically munched on them and kept going back for more! We also named the plants based on how they tasted and didn't care much for their common or botanical names. We went for a treasure walk and mapped the treasures we spotted, plucking some leaves to create a map and herbarium towards the end of the session. The highlight was when some of them named the map 'the Map of Wonder' or 'Nature's Map'! A shoutout to @keralamuseum for inviting me and for being such amazing hosts, patiently helping us out in the sweltering Kochi heat. If you wish to host a similar workshop at your space, write to [email protected]. . . . . . . . . #summercamp #kidsactivities #natureeducationprogram #wildedibles #outdoorlearning #keralamuseum #kochievents #naturewalk #herbarium #workshopideas #curiosityinkids #educationthroughnature #handsonlearning #creativelearning #environmentaleducation #forgottengreens #wildgreens #wildfoodlove #outdoorlearningenvironment #outdoorlearning #kochigram #kochi #climateeducation #unlearnandrelearn #unlearning
Golf with the forgotten… We found ourselves at an unusual golf course, one that whispered stories of its gilded past through the crumbling facades of an abandoned mansion. The greens, though unkempt, were vibrant with the rogue life of nature reclaiming its land. Here, in this ghostly realm of former grandeur, we played our rounds amidst echoes of laughter and clinking glasses from bygone soirées. Our strokes, light and reverent, seemed to honor the legends who once walked these grounds. Among them was a figure we could almost picture leaning against the grand archway, nonchalantly watching our play—a man whose charm was as legendary as his love for the game, reminiscent of Steve McQueen in his halcyon days. The sun cast long shadows as we traversed the course, feeling the weight of history with each swing, playing not just a game, but a homage to the golden era that this place so vividly remembered. This story is ofcourse fictional. #oldmoneygolf #GolfingHistory #MajesticRuins #HistoricFairways #LostLuxury #ForgottenGreens #VintageGolf #Nostalgia #EchoesOfThePast #McQueenStyle #GolfLegends #TimelessGolf #HeritageGolf #GolfNostalgia #OldWorldCharm #ClassicGolf #EstateGolf #RetroGolf #HiddenGems #MansionCourse #OldMoney #VintageLuxury #Aristocracy #ElegantEstates #TimelessElegance #WealthyHeritage #ClassicGentry #OpulentPastimes #GrandTraditions #golfingaristocracy
We played an exciting new card game that is in the prototype phase. The children were elated to play the game. Once they began, they were focussed and discussed strategies with much fervour. They were shocked to hear that the game had not been bought from somewhere, and that one of their facilitators had made the game and brought it from home. Perhaps that will inspire them to make their own games? 😉 Time will tell. The game is being created by our friends: Rahul Hasija ( @swacardz ) , Shruti Tharayil ( @forgottengreens )and Niom Samson ( @play.istheway ) . . . . #prototype #gamedesign #resourceperson #games #forgottengreens #learningthroughplay #learning #education #AlternativeEducation #Anubhutee #learningaboutnature #play #strategy
I spent a few days with Harsh at @gaiagrid documenting, researching, foraging, and cooking with the edible greens of Gaia Grid. It was such an enriching experience, as I had visited Gaia Grid back in 2017 when it was just a barren piece of land, and Harsh was slowly working on rewilding it. Coming back after 7 years, the change that the land has undergone was massive, and it felt relevant to document the flora of the land in order to understand what is endemic and what has been introduced from outside. I do think documenting the flora since the beginning of the rewilding project would have shed more light on a lot more about the land and the soil, but alas, it is never too late to work on it now. So here is a small catalogue of a few of the many plants we documented. We foraged some of these during the time I was there, either using them as part of our meals or for their medicinal properties. If you have land/farm or are working on a rewilding project, invite forgotten greens to map the flora of your land and discover their myriad uses. Write to @[email protected] to explore more! Also, shout out to Gaia Grid for the persistent work they have done in rewilding the land, which now hosts such a rich world of flora and fauna. #GaiaGrid #rewilding #floradocumentation #ediblegreens #forgottengreens #landrestoration #environmentaleducation #sustainability #ecology #natureconservation #wildgreens #ediblewildplants #edible&medicinal #healingherbs #herbsofinstagram #herbsofindia #plantsofindia
March is the arrival of Spring and the signs of life begins to appear slowly. Small green buds sprout on trees and the soil reveals its secrets which lay dead during winter months. Gradually, Kashmir blooms with flowers and green leaves in the coming months. I learnt about edible wild greens from my grandmother and mother. Today I will talk about one of my favorite wild greens of the summer. I don’t notice where it springs from until the whole bed is covered on top with it. Next day, small yellow flowers will bloom out of nowhere and the heart will automatically jump to say, “Hello! Little sunshines”. Though its roots don’t go deep inside, the stems keep crawling and extending themselves on the soil. There’s nobody to tend to it but still it grows in all warm-hot weather conditions, with or without water. It endures everything yet it chooses to stay tender. And it melts away the moment you put it in the cooking pot. We call it Nunnar (Portulaca oleracea) in Kashmiri. Its stem is definitely not red in color. It reminds me of those unripe plums which are a little hard; and indeed both of them are tangy. Its stems branch into smaller green leaves with that waxy coating which gives it a glossy appearance on the inside and shiny outside. That’s how you recognise it. Owing to its sour taste, my grandmother used to cook it with Amaranth leaves to balance its taste and used to add minimal spices and oil. What I miss the most is how she along with other friends would go out foraging with their Phutte (wicker basket) and small knives to dig the greens out. They used to return with old wicker basket full of wild greens- Nunnar, Lessei, Ubej, Kralmond; the basket was so old that its color was black and not brown anymore. She used to place the basket in the small stream running in front of the house, take it out and shake all the water out through the gaps between reeds. The process was repeated a couple of times. Post by @fouziyatehzeeb What is Purslane called in your language? How do you cook it? . . . . #purslane #nunnar #portulacaoleracea #forgottengreens #forgottenfood #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia
The onset of spring in the Himalayas begins with a massive variety of yellow flowers, the first of many being the modest ‘Peoli’, springing in the valleys from mid-february onward. As the forests become denser with the longer hours of sun, tiny bulbs of red starts to appear on a wild himalayan tree- Rhododendron. In only 15 sunny days, these bulbs will blossom into ‘Buransh’-the flower king of the jungle (as i like to remember it). Known in Uttarakhand by many names like Buraas, Braas and Buransh- Rhododendron holds a special place in the lives of locals in the mountains. Buransh flower is the size of a full grown apple and perfectly fits the profile of a fruit- wild and tangy - just how it looks. I have vivid memories of bringing home Buransh flowers from the forest and preserving them for various uses for later months- after all, rhododendron blossoms for less than a month in a year. This was the time when preserves and ferments were more than some trending words. A big portion of Himalayan food depended on local ecology and still does in many parts of the state. The flower has many ethnobotanical uses where the flower juice is used to treat headaches, fever, stomachache and is known to be an excellent blood purifier. The wood from the tree has a unique pinkish color and has been used in wood-carving and making wooden utensils. The sweet-sour taste of the flower makes for a delicious add-on in the chutneys and is widely used in making jams, squashes and sharbat. Personally, I am a fan of a simple blend of herbal tea with dry Rhododendron petals. It is safe to say that Buransh is an invaluable Himalayan tree with roots deep into the local Himalayan culture and is an important ethnomedicine to the locals. We planted a small Buransh sapling nearby and have seen it grow only 10 inches in 3 years, so strong is the root structure of this native Himalayan tree that it becomes essential to save its identity through plantation,documentation and understanding. #rhododendron #buransh #himalayanplants #forgottengreens #forgottenfood #rewildingindia #wildfood #foragingindia #culinarybiodiversity #decolonizefood #rewildingyourdiet #foodspotting #wildfoodlove
Hello to all the new people on this handle! I'm Shruti Tharayil, and I often find it challenging to sum up my profession with a title. Back in 2013, I walked away from the 9-5 way of life, embarking on a journey of unlearning conventional norms and embracing the road less traveled. My focus lies in researching, documenting and educating people about local food systems, particularly the disappearing tradition of consuming uncultivated foods. Check out my passion project @forgottengreens for more on that! I'm passionate about writing about food within the intersections of caste, biodiversity, and culture. Currently, I am on a solo cycle yatra across parts of South India, documenting food stories along the way. I prefer a slowed-down lifestyle, and big cities make me anxious. I like to think of myself as warm, funny, and open hearted, though I suppose others would be better judges of that! Thank you for following my handle, and I hope you find something meaningful here. Some of my posts might offend you, so feel free to unfollow then—no hard feelings. Photo courtesy - my dearest adopted daughter @may_srithaworn . . . . #selfintroduction #introduction #selfintro #selflove #shrutitharayil #southindiacycleyatra #cycleyatra #forgottengreens #southindian #southindia #foodwriter #foodwriting #findlove #findyourself
Looking back on the Wild Food Walk led by Shruti Tharayil at Cubbon Park in Bangalore with the Culture of Food Capstone students from the Masters in English and Cultural Studies cohort!☘️ The walk through Cubbon Park enabled the students to explore and get insights on the wide variety of edible and medicinal greens that exist and can be foraged in the urban landscape! One of the favourites was the Toothache plant! The students had a lot of fun experiencing the magic of the plant, as upon chewing it their mouths went numb for a few minutes! Wild greens find a way to grow and thrive even amidst constant weeding. Photos 📸: @backpackinguides @nandanaaa #foodwalk #EcoSpective #cubbonpark #CulturalStudies #urbanforaging #sustainability #CHRISTUniversity #ECS #fyp #foodstudies #foodsystem #foodcapstone #maenglishandculturalstudies #forgottengreens #bangalore #wildfoodwalk #toothacheplant #urbanforaging #wildfood #foragedfood #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #ediblewildplants #wildgreens
Have you been searching for a truly thoughtful, creative, and eco-friendly gift for your lover this Valentine’s Day? Take a walk in your neighborhood’s empty plot and search for the Balloon Vine. Look closely and try to spot the small green/brown puffs. Take the puff and gift it to your loved one, asking them to open it and find their gift inside—a present filled with nature’s love! Balloon Vine is a woody perennial climber that hosts one of the most romantic seeds you will ever encounter! The plant derives its name, Cardiospermum or Love-in-a-puff, from the beautiful tiny black seeds that bear a tiny heart image on them. It truly embodies love in a puff, captivating you with its charm as you learn more about it. Type Loveinapuff in the comments if you wish to know more about the properties of Ballon vine. So, what are you waiting for? Head out into the nature around you and get the best Valentine’s Day gift! . . . . . . #forgottengreens #loveinapuff #balloonvine #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #localfoods #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #instafood #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood
nature mandala...because why not.....🙂 #southindia #southindiancycletour #naturemandala #naturemandala #naturemandala #naturemagic #natureart #naturelovers #forgottengreens #centerforecoculinarystudies #shrutitharayil #cyclinglife #cycleyatra #cyclist #cyclingindia
~ Forgotten greens have taken over ...my forgotten garden The clover, the oxalis, the persicaria The weeds - in simple terms; For me though, I enjoy your endearing spirit, uplifting and comforting. Like a deep desire that crawls under your skin And is forever embedded in the soul Living through the harsh & forgotten spells Until the time is right and the season is bright. Weeds are flowers too once you get to know them. #forgottengreens #oxalis
• Humans of Forgotten Greens • When Chigurla Mallikarjun speaks, he does so through the language of stories, parables, and poetry. His words unravel the tapestry of his identity as a Chenchu adivasi, intricately woven through the honeycombs abundant in their forest, and the tender leaves symbolizing new beginnings. He paints vivid pictures of birds that adorn the horizon with the setting sun. Hailing from the Chenchu adivasi community, a Dravidian tribe with a traditional way of life based on hunting and gathering, Mallikarjun is more than a walking encyclopedia of the biodiversity in his forest. He is also a storyteller, weaving folk stories through their lives, and a priest at the intersection of activism and spirituality. It has been a privilege to know Mallikarjun and work alongside him. Listening to his descriptions of the forest, plants, trees, and animals around him feels like traversing a dimension of co-existence and reverence. However, with rampant ‘development’ and displacement from their forest lands, the Chenchu population has been on a decline, and their culture is gradually being homogenized, erasing the diversity our land holds. Mallikarjun actively engages in local politics, fighting against the oppressive and exclusionary forces pushing his tribe to the brink. As much as Mallikarjun’s stories captivate, and as much as this post romanticizes his folk tales, one cannot help but end this caption by shedding light on the harsh reality that adivasi communities face each day for their basic needs and survival, along with the fast disappearance of local oral knowledge systems that these communities, and people like Mallikarjun, have held over generations. . . . . . . #forgottengreens #humansofforgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #localfoods #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #growyourown #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood
South India Cycle Yatra Day 1: Perambur - Thiruvottiyur - Ennore We finally began our yatra in Perambur, Chennai and pedaled through the chaos of North Chennai to Thiruvottiyur, and reached Ennore. The first day is always difficult as we had a sleepless night filled with anxiety as we were going to jump into the unknown! As we reached Ennore, we witnessed the environmental challenges at Ennore's beach, covered in garbage, and the industrial complex emitting smoke. The day was spent at the gas leak protest site, hearing stories of struggles as people are demanding the shutdown of the company due to deteriorating health. It was nice to witness how an ecosystem of support was built around the protest area as people were offering/selling food and water. Lunch was served to everyone who was present. It was a fulfilling day for 2 people who haven't cycled so much in a while. #cycleyatra #southindia #southindiancycletour #cycling #cycling #cycling #foodstories #fooddocumentation #forgottengreens #centerforecoculinarystudies #shrutitharayil #ennore #ennoregasleak #ennoreport
When I delved deeper into the world of foraging and uncultivated foods, the concept of foraging from the ocean fascinated me. It was hard to fathom that beneath the waves and beyond the realm of fishes, there existed an edible world that has been consumed by humans for generations. The first sight of the underwater forest along the beaches of Western Cape, South Africa, was exhilarating! Witnessing a vast ecosystem of oceanic flora right before my eyes was truly unbelievable! Guided by two amazing women, Sara and Noni @zulustarr , I had the privilege of harvesting edible seaweed for the first time. We took our time connecting with the ocean, seeking permission, and gently harvesting enough for our consumption. The experience is still vivid in my memory—the gentle fierceness of the waves embracing our feet as we harvested Kelp. The Kelp we harvested primarily belonged to two main species: Ecklonia maxima and Laminaria pallida. If you slow your breathing and listen, you can hear the crackling of the Kelp. Look up and you’ll witness a mesmerizing scene of sun rays trickling down through the tall underwater trees. Kelp forests play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions, capturing and sequestering carbon faster than land forests. Bringing back our harvested kelp, we sliced them thin and simply stir-fried them. We also tried some raw, and it truly felt like tasting the ocean in its rawest form. Have you ever had the opportunity to forage or eat wild edibles from the sea? Share your experience with us! 🌊 . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #seakelp #eckloniamaxima #laminariapallida #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #westerncape #oceanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #regenerativeagriculture #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood
I am honoured to have contributed the chapter ‘The Story of Forgotten Greens and Knowledge’ to the handbook ‘Cultivating Hope,’ curated by Amrita Hazra and Deborah Durra @deborahdutta The handbook addresses the understudied discourse and practices or urban food systems in India, with a focus on examining local knowledge systems and spatial, climatic, and socio-economic considerations in Indian cities. The research involves narratives from practicing urban farmers of diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The research aims to develop interactive workshops and an illustrated handbook to showcase the possibilities of sustainable food systems. Head to the link in the bio to access the handbook under the name ‘There is a bee in my balcony: a guide to growing food anywhere you live using illustrated narratives of diverse urban farms’ and don't forget to share it in your circles! 😁 #organicfarming #urbangreen #greencity #urbangardener #urbangardens #urbanfarms #citypermaculture #greenthumb #urbangrowing #giy #growyourown #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #regenerativeagriculture #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #ediblewildplants #forgottenfood
I stepped out of academic circles back in 2014 because the work happening there felt disconnected from the ground realities. Although I had almost enrolled in a Ph.D. program in South Asian Studies, I decided against it and continued my work in India. In the subsequent years, I immersed myself in alternative learning spaces that challenged the existence of formalized schooling. This experience opened up new perspectives on the world. This year, after almost a decade, I had the opportunity to participate in the Annual National Conference, ' @vachana.christ organized by the Department of English and Cultural Studies at Christ University, Bangalore Deemed to be University. I hosted a workshop on the 'Role of Uncultivated Foods in Indian Food Systems.' Designing the session flow was so much fun, and engaging with the students was immensely fulfilling. They shared childhood memories of consuming uncultivated foods, and some even discussed wild foods they had eaten in the past year. It was an honor to facilitate such a diverse group and witness their responses. Returning to an academic setting after a decade felt different. The space was more proactive, and the students were deeply engaged with ground realities. It was akin to visiting a long-lost friend and rekindling our friendship. Maybe this is a new chapter of my life to engage with diverse learning spaces & to understand everything co-exists for a reason. Here are a few glimpses of the session I hosted. A special shout-out to @backpackinguides for being the connecting link and a cheerleader for the work we do. What is one uncultivated food you ate in 2023? Share with me 🙂 #christuniversity #christuniversitybangalore #uncultivatedgreens #uncultivatedfoods #wildfood #wildfoodlove #wildfoodindia #wildfoods #foragingindia #forgottengreens #shrutitharayil #indianfoodsystems #decolonizefood #localfoodsystems #centerforecoculinarystudies
Our culinary landscape boasts a wide range of souring ingredients, from tamarind sourced from the Eastern ghats to kokum and Malabar tamarind from the Western ghats. In addition to these fruits, we also incorporate a diverse selection of greens as souring agents, such as the renowned gongura (Hibiscus sadariffa) . One such unique souring ingredient I had the opportunity to taste was in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya – introducing Hur Mao. The name of the plant, when translated from Khasi, means 'the leaves that grow on the rock.' As the name suggests, Hur Mao thrives on rocky or concrete surfaces, and it comes in two varieties – green and red. This herbaceous plant grows erect and is a perennial herb, reaching heights of 20-90 cm. The leaves are glossy with a velvety coating, and the bottom of the leaves can be either green or maroon. The plant forms clusters on rocks, with short stems and larger leaves, giving the initial impression of a plant with only leaves. The leaves have a sour taste and are often used as a souring agent when cooking with fish, dried fish, or in combination with other greens or vegetables to balance out the flavors. I was fortunate enough to enjoy a fish curry cooked with Hur Mao, where the slight tanginess of the greens added a subtle punch to the simple recipe prepared by Kres, my host. She skillfully cooked the fish with the greens, using minimal condiments. What other leafy greens do you use as souring ingredients in your cooking? Share your favorites with us! . . . . . . #forgottengreens #hurmaw #begonia #greensofmeghalaya #forgottengreensandhealingpowers #forgottengreensreels #forgottengreensonthemove #meghalaya #meghalayafood #khasi #khasihills #eastkhasihills #khasitribe #khasifood #meghalayafood #meghalayadiaries #wildedibles #wildedibleplants #wildgreens #uncultivatedgreens #uncultivatedfoods #wildfood #wildfoodindia #wildfoodlove #souringagent #decolonisefoodsystems #decolonizefoodsystems #ingredient #forgotteningredients #lostfood #forgottenfoods #forgotteningredients
We often receive inquiries about book recommendations and we’ve finally compiled a small list for those eager to explore literature on uncultivated foods, wild edible greens, foraging, and related topics within the Indian ecosystems. Most of these books are available for purchase or download online. The past decade has witnessed a gradual growth in creative and engaging literature addressing uncultivated foods and related themes in the Indian context. Supporting these works is crucial as we strive for more decentralized and contextualized knowledge powerhouses. A special shout-out to @thelocavore.in @dhu.thi @harini.nagendra @ncf.india for their incredible contributions to this field and for continuing to inspire. If you have more book recommendations, feel free to share them with us in the comments! 📖 . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #regenerativeagriculture #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens
This plant – yes, the one with the tiny, pretty pink and purple flowers that some people also call the mauve palette – is called Chenchali kura in Telugu and Chanchali in Hindi. And you know why? The plant grows abundantly in rocky drylands, and the flowers represent childlike playfulness. Hence, the name Chanchal, which literally translates to the same. During the time when I lived in Andhra Pradesh, one of my mentors, Padmaja Amma, who is a living herbarium, shared this insight with me with her childlike enthusiasm. This was during my early days of learning about uncultivated greens. I cooked Chenchali kura and fell in love with its flavors, which I simply cannot put into words. The leaves, tender stem, and flowers are cooked, and the flavor of the cooked greens is not similar to any other greens I know. Digera Muricata is commonly known as false amaranth and is often categorized as famine food because of its property to grow abundantly wild in dry climates. It is commonly found as companion plants growing in farmlands or as ‘weeds’ in fallow/common land. The plant plays roles in herbal folk medicine and is a rich source of nutrients. The pretty flowers provide nectar to the Mottled Emigrant butterfly. Does this grow in your landscape? Have any favorite recipe you would like to share with us? . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #regenerativeagriculture #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #falseamaranth #chanchali
Look what arrived today! 😍 @dhanaknaturals and @forgottengreens hosted a giveaway this new year and I was one of the two people who were lucky enough to receive this assortment of organic and natural body care products. I'm really excited to try this, particularly as a guy who uses one bar of soap to wash his whole body. 😬 Or for whom moisturizing is an alien concept 👽. I've heard skincare is important. And I'm really glad I'm kicking off my skincare journey with natural products. Thank you again guys, I'm really thankful to receive this 🙇🏻♂️ PS: Love the sustainable packaging 🤗 #banjarafarmer #dhanaknaturals #forgottengreens
2 weeks to go for our Cycle Yatra and we cant keep calm! At the core of the yatra, we hope to document stories, conversations and recipes and for that I need access to gears that can facilitate the documentation process. I am looking for financial or resource based support for the same. Your financial support is vital to bring this yatra to life. It directly funds essential needs such as cycling gears, documentation tools, post-production content, and unforeseen travel expenses. Importantly, none of these funds will go towards personal living expenses, which are sustained through the workshops and events I host. Join me in this exploration, supporting the cause at its core. Head to the link to know more about the yatra and to support this yatra financially. If you want to know how you could join us in the yatra, please write to me @ [email protected] Dont forget to spread the word dear insta fam! #cyclinglife #cyclewithshruti #cycling #cycleyatra #LocalFoodSystems #localfoodsystems #LocalFoodMovement #indianfoodsystem #indianfoodsystems #DecolonizeFoodSystems #DecolonialFood #forgottengreens #centerforecoculinarystudies
Lovely Bengaluru! We are so very excited to announce our first Wild Food Walk of this year happening next weekend at our beloved Cubbon Park! If you are curious about the wild edibles growing in your city, then don’t miss out on this opportunity. Head to the link in the bio and register, and we’ll see you next Saturday! Also, don’t forget to spread the word! ☘️ Place - Cubbon Park Date - 13th Jan Time - 9 to 11:30 am . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #localfoods #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #growyourown #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #wildfoodwalk #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood #foodstories
#knowyourinvasives In the vibrant tapestry of uncultivated foods, a fascinating chapter unfolds- a chapter that explores the presence of invasives in the intricate dance of India's ecosystems. Welcome to the "Know Your Invasive" series, where we unravel the stories of species that, like curious travelers, found their way to new lands with the help of humans. Picture a time when foreign species, journeyed to India from distant lands. Humans, unknowingly acting as accomplices, facilitated their spread for purposes such as horticulture, floriculture, and sustenance. These invaders, not content with their newfound territories, hitched rides on vehicles and clung to humans, venturing far beyond their native homes. Meet the protagonist of our tale—the notorious Lantana camara. Hailing as one of the world's worst invasive species, it earned its spot as a species of high concern in the vast tapestry of India. Lantana's saga began during the days of colonization when it was introduced as an ornamental delight in the Kolkata Botanical Garden in 1809. Its flowers, a kaleidoscope of hues ranging from white to red, adorned the landscape, luring admirers from afar. Lantana, with its deceptive charm, formed impenetrable thickets in the forest understory. Its arrival signaled trouble, suppressing the growth of native species and reshaping the very essence of the forests. As if weaving a sinister plot, this invasive intruder altered not only the structure but also the functioning of ecosystems, casting a shadow over essential services crucial for human well-being. The story takes a darker turn as Lantana's impact unfolds. The plant, uninvited yet thriving, contributed to the fuel load in the forests, turning them into tinderboxes. The consequence—a dance of frequent and intense fires that ravaged the landscape, leaving behind a trail of destruction and increasing tree mortality. Lantana, with its unpalatable nature, declared war on wild herbivores, reducing the once abundant forage to a scarce resource. Contd in comments
It's hard to believe that it's the end of the year 2023. I wish all who celebrate Merry Christmas and happy holidays This is what we had today for our lunch. From left - Matta rice topped with homemade ghee - Water spinach/Nela Basale and pigeon pea small sambar ( Nela Basale pic at the last ) - Pepper and jeera Rasam - homemade curd Enjoy your holidays 😁 . . . . . . . . . #khaadyaa #khaadyaathali #satvikfood #goodfood #homecooking #homemade #maneoota #haveekafood #haveekafoodseries #forgottengreens #knowyourgreens #lunch #vegetarian #holiday#
Food is such an intricate part of ny explorations in the last decade that the intricacies of the larger system cannot help but amaze me! At the core of the yatra, we hope to document stories, conversations and recipes and for that I need access to gears that can facilitate the documentation process. I am looking for financial or resource based support for the same. Your financial support is vital to bring this yatra to life. It directly funds essential needs such as cycling gears, documentation tools, post-production content, and unforeseen travel expenses. Importantly, none of these funds will go towards personal living expenses, which are sustained through the workshops and events I host. Join me in this exploration, supporting the cause at its core. Head to the link to know more about the yatra and to support this yatra financially. If you want to know how you could join us in the yatra, please write to me @ [email protected] Dont forget to spread the word dear insta fam! #cyclinglife #cyclewithshruti #cycling #cycleyatra #LocalFoodSystems #localfoodsystems #LocalFoodMovement #indianfoodsystem #indianfoodsystems #DecolonizeFoodSystems #DecolonialFood #forgottengreens #centerforecoculinarystudies
GIVEAWAY ALERT! Hello Insta fam! 2023 was a joyful year for us. And as the year comes to an end, it is a moment to reflect on the journey of Forgotten Greens. What started as a small page on facebook as a way to share my love for uncultivated greens has grown into a big online community of almost 11k! We are truly humbled by all the love you’ve shown us! To celebrate the end of this year and the start of new, we are hosting a giveaway in collaboration with @dhanaknaturals 2 lucky people will be selected and will get a surprise hamper of body care products. Dhanak Naturals is a small business that makes natural handcrafted body care products and recipes. We’ve had so much fun collaborating with them in the past. The rules of the giveaway are pretty simple: 1. Follow the pages of @forgottengreens and @dhanaknaturals 2. Share the giveaway post on your story and tag us! (Private accounts send us a screenshot please) 3. Tag three friends in the comments and mention one home ingredient that you use for your body care! We’re taking entries till 30th December. The winner will be announced on 31st Dec 10:30am! Happy participating! . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #forgottengreensreels #slowfood #theartofslowliving #gathering #homecooking #foraging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foraged #forager #localfoods #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #growyourown #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #forage #instafood #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs
With 2023 coming to a close, it’s time to reflect on the incredible journey of the past 365 days. A year filled with possibilities, travel, and the joy of finally meeting many virtual acquaintances in person! Our growth has been exponential compared to 2022, reaching close to 300 people through our online workshops. We even dipped our toes into international waters, quite literally, foraging wild edibles from the ocean—a first for us! Thank you, 2023, for opening up possibilities and abundance. As we step into 2024, we’re excited to announce that we’re actively seeking funders interested in supporting our work in various capacities. If you have a paid project idea for potential collaboration, reach out to us at [email protected]. Your support is the propelling force we need as we embrace the new year. Let’s continue this journey together! Our wild food walks have sparked roaring interest, and we hope to do more in the coming year. As we evaluate our reach, we can’t help but notice a slight leaning. In 2024, our vision is to connect with more people from the northern and northeastern parts of India. Together, let’s make 2024 a year of even greater exploration and connection! . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodmemories #foodascommons #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #foodmemory #wildgreens #forgottenfood #goodbye2023
Bathua (Chenopodium album), the 'Nurturing Green,' flourishes across the diverse terrains of the Indian subcontinent. A symbol of resilience and nutritional richness, its tender leaves and earthy aroma embody centuries of tradition and hold a special place in the culinary heritage of the region. #ForestBasket #forgottengreens #indianculinary #indianculinaryheritage #IndianCuisine #SeasonalGreens #CulinaryDelights #LocalBiodiversity #MonsoonFlavors #WinterGreens #SubtropicalIndia #NorthernMarkets
Food is such an intricate part of ny explorations in the last decade that the intricacies of the larger system cannot help but amaze me! At the core of the yatra, we hope to document stories, conversations and recipes and for that I need access to gears that can facilitate the documentation process. I am looking for financial or resource based support for the same. Your financial support is vital to bring this yatra to life. It directly funds essential needs such as cycling gears, documentation tools, post-production content, and unforeseen travel expenses. Importantly, none of these funds will go towards personal living expenses, which are sustained through the workshops and events I host. Join me in this exploration, supporting the cause at its core. Head to the link to know more about the yatra and to support this yatra financially. If you want to know how you could join us in the yatra, please write to me @ [email protected] Dont forget to spread the word dear insta fam! #cyclinglife #cyclewithshruti #cycling #cycleyatra #LocalFoodSystems #localfoodsystems #LocalFoodMovement #indianfoodsystem #indianfoodsystems #DecolonizeFoodSystems #DecolonialFood #forgottengreens #centerforecoculinarystudies
Seasonal greens are an integral part of the culinary landscape across the Indian peninsula. Local greens add incredible amounts of biodiversity to our plates and bodies. The monsoon opens up a world of local greens in the southwestern parts, tropical regions of India. Winters bring forth seasonal greens in the subtropical landscapes, i.e., most of northern states. The markets in northern states of India are a treat to the eyes during this season, offering a wide range of dishes woven with local and seasonal ingredients that are mind-blowing! We also have summer greens, mostly consumed in the central parts of India, but more on that during summer! Do you know when other parts of India consume seasonal greens? Share with us! So, here is an attempt at compiling the greens consumed largely in the subtropical landscapes of Northern India, famously known as the winter greens. Tell us what we have missed! #forgottengreens #indianculinary #indianculinaryheritage #IndianCuisine #SeasonalGreens #CulinaryDelights #LocalBiodiversity #MonsoonFlavors #WinterGreens #SubtropicalIndia #NorthernMarkets #SummerCulinaryTraditions #fooddiscovery #indianfoodsystem #decolonize #decolonizeyourfood #decolonizingfood #localfood #localandseasonal #seasonalgreens #seasonalfoods #winterfoods #indiangreens #wildedible #uncultivatedgreens #wildedibleplants
This post has been sitting in my drafts for nearly a month, coinciding with the ongoing conflict in Palestine. I hesitated about sharing it because Forgotten Greens is a platform that typically focuses on uncultivated greens—why delve into something political? Yet, I’ve come to realize that merely discussing foraging uncultivated greens, rewilding, and acknowledging traditional knowledge holders is, in itself, a political act. Working to restore the connection to nature is political. Choosing what finds a place in your daily diet and deciding what thrives in your garden or on your farm is political. However, the most profound political act is addressing our rapidly degrading ecosystems, often overshadowed in environmental activism discussions, particularly the devastating impact of invasive species. The destruction wrought by invasive species in our landscapes is immeasurable, and it’s a topic that demands attention. The colonization of our ecosystems parallels the colonization of our cultures. Our native species were replaced by exotic, ornamental plants that added little value to our socio-cultural systems. In return, these invasive species aggressively colonized our common lands, pasture lands, grasslands, and now our forests. So, here we are, calling out invasive species for what they are—settler colonialists, akin to the colonial programs unfolding globally. . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodascommons #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #settlercolonialism #wildgreens #forgottenfood #invasiveplants
and I am back after a kutty pause...because life as you I now has a way to throw all kinds of challenges at you and laugh at your plans! Anyways, slowly the cycle yatra is taking shape. 2 wonderful people have almost confirmed joining me and we will begin the yatra with the begining of 2024, which is just a couple of weeks away! At the core of the yatra, we hope to document stories, conversations and recipes and for that I need access to gears that can facilitate the documentation process. I am looking for financial or resource based support for the same. Your financial support is vital to bring this yatra to life. It directly funds essential needs such as cycling gears, documentation tools, post-production content, and unforeseen travel expenses. Importantly, none of these funds will go towards personal living expenses, which are sustained through the workshops and events I host. Join me in this exploration, supporting the cause at its core. Head to the link to know more about the yatra and to support this yatra financially. If you want to know how you could support the yatra resource - wise, please write to me @ [email protected] Dont forget to spread the word dear insta fam! #cyclinglife #cyclewithshruti #cycling #cycleyatra #LocalFoodSystems #localfoodsystems #LocalFoodMovement #indianfoodsystem #indianfoodsystems #DecolonizeFoodSystems #DecolonialFood #forgottengreens #centerforecoculinarystudies
Are you curious about wild plants growing around you? Do you want to unlock the secrets of your own backyard and discover the incredible benefits of the lesser known herbs? Do you like making your own body care products? Or perhaps you would like yo brew you own medicinal potions? Look no further! Our workshop is designed to ignite your passion for plants and empower you with the knowledge to dabble into homemade herbalism! Join us for an introduction into the world of backyard herbalism at our upcoming online workshop. In this workshop, we will cover herbs that grow in our immediate vicinity and ways to use them in our daily lives. 🗓 Date - 3rd December 🕰 Time - 4 pm to 6 pm 📍 Location - Online Head to the link in the bio to register for the workshop! Let’s embrace the magic of nature together and embark on this transformative journey into backyard herbalism. See you at the workshop! 🍀🧙♀️ . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #forgottengreensworkshop #backyardherbalism #brewyourownpotions #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #regenerativeagriculture #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood
Last weekend was an immersion into the world of #permaculture at the National Permaculture Convergence , and it was truly an honor to be part of an ever-growing community of like-hearted individuals working towards a similar vision – earth care, people care, and fair share! Here are some stolen glimpses from @wildberryorganics , as I was MIA due to an unforeseen bout of cold & fever. It was refreshing despite the illness, as I got to meet old friends, connect with many of my virtual friends in real life, and make new connections that will surely nourish me as we travel along. Also, it was an honor to host a session on @forgottengreens and talk about 'There are no weeds in nature.' If given the chance, I can speak about it for an entire day! This is also a shout-out to @aranyapermaculture , especially @snehakoppula , for being such a gracious organizer and host along with Narsanna and Padma garu, whose humbleness teaches you to be grounded. I came back with renewed energy and hope towards working on my vision – an experiential learning space to study all aspects of food! Here's celebrating conscious communities that are working towards change! #PermacultureJourney #CommunityHonors #NatureConnection #forgottengreens #greenliving #sustainableliving #honortheearth #ecotalk #naturewisdom #EnvironmentalAwareness #ConsciousLiving #SustainableLiving #SpeakerLife #PassionateAboutNature #GreenSessions #EarthCare #WeedsInNature #PermacultureEducation #RenewedEnthusiasm #sustainablecommunities #permacultureindia #permacultureinindia
I am a meticulous planner but at the same time I am open enough to go with the flow. So when It comes to planning a cycle yatra, a part of me wants to plan every minutes detail but having done something similar before, I know all this planning will go in vain! Anyways, putting intentions out there never hurts right!? So here is what I would like to focus during the cycle yatra. Curious about how you can support the yatra...stay tuned as I'll be sharing that soonly 🙂 Lastly, if you wish to join me for the yatra, please drop in a mail to forgottengreens@gmail Please do not DM as I won't ve responding to those. #cyclinglife #cycleyatra #centerforecoculinarystudies #cecs #forgottengreens #intentions #intentionsetting #cyclewithshruti
This year we worked on curating some new workshops and the response to them has been great! As we offer a workshop, the idea for a new one comes up, through discussions with participants, our own research, and the ongoing exploration of the world of uncultivated greens! As 2023 is coming to an end, we are offering some of these workshops again with the hope that our way of offering knowledge reaches and benefits more people! Swipe left to know more about these offerings! Click on the link in the bio to register. And don’t wait till the last minute as we’re offering only limited slots! See you soon! 🌺 All of these are online workshops. 3rd Dec - Introduction to Backyard Herbalism 2nd and 3rd Dec - Introduction to the World of Edible Flowers 9th and 10th Dec - Into the Wild (Deep Dive into the World of Wild Edibles) 10th Dec - Introduction to the World of Invasives . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #regenerativeagriculture #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #mythologyandecology #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood
•Humans of Forgotten Greens • Meeting Archana at one of our first Forgotten Greens workshops in 2020 was an incredible experience. Her vast knowledge about plants left me truly impressed. Since then, she has become a veritable encyclopedia of plant wisdom. From being a participant, she has transformed into my guru on numerous occasions, consistently inspiring and educating me. Introducing Archana @mylittlethoughtslane the ultimate plant enthusiast! 🌱 Imagine this: Archana's parents shared an unwavering passion for gardening that extended beyond a hobby – it was a way of life. They didn't merely cultivate plants; they welcomed them into their family, treating them as cherished members. Workshops, traditional farming classes, and gardening events were their playground, where they absorbed every ounce of plant wisdom available. Archana's father, an avid reader, dived into books that opened doors to the enchanting world of plants and nature. On the other hand, her mother, armed with a degree in Zoology, was a self-taught gardener with an unending love for botany. In a time before Google ruled the world (yes, remember those days?), Archana became her mother's Plant Name Whisperer. She had an uncanny ability to recall plant names more easily than the names of her extended family members! 😁 Archana's journey with plants commenced in her youth, resembling something out of a fairy tale. The world of plants revealed countless magical moments, consistently guiding her to awe-inspiring discoveries. It's not just about knowing a plant's name; it's about comprehending the resilience these green companions possess. They teach us to weather life's storms, thrive in adversity, and bloom even when everything seems upside down. It's a gentle reminder that within each of us, even during the toughest times, there lies a seed of strength, waiting to burst into something beautiful. Don't hesitate to connect with Archana on Instagram; let's engage in delightful conversations about plants and all things green! . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #humansofforgottengreens
Today we decided to shed light on a plant that often gets misidentified – Punarnava. Thanks to the beautifully written post by @vivasayeeslife , we realized the need for this post, as the look-alike plant, Sabuni, has been in the spotlight for far too long, for no fault of its own! The only issue is that the leaves and the plant structure can be quite confusing for a layperson. So here's a comparison post about these two look-alike plants that are often mistaken for each other. What better way to learn than by comparing them side by side? Trianthema portulacastrum, commonly known as Desert Horse Purslane in English and Sabuni in Hindi, is a widely found wild edible in India. It's often consumed as a leafy green and features tiny, white, stalkless flowers nestled among the leaves. The leaves are a darker shade of green and sometimes have a reddish tinge around the edges. Boerhavia diffusa, commonly known as Red Spiderling in English and famously known as Punarnava in Hindi, is one of the revered herbs in folk medicine. Punarnava gets its name because when consumed, it's said to rejuvenate and renew the body. There are two versions of Boerhavia – B. Diffusa and B. Erecta (another post coming up soon!). Both varieties host tiny pinkish/white flowers. Both of these wild edibles grow as ground cover and can be fantastic options as live mulch. While Punarnava is known for its medicinal properties, Sabuni is also used in folk medicines, especially the roots. So the next time you think you've spotted Punarnava, pause, take a closer look at the flowers and leaves, and then confirm! . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #punarnava #sabuni #deserthorsepurslane #redhogweed #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood
The reason this plant stayed with me was because of its name. Somewhere I had read how it is called 'Musumusukkai' and I just loved the name. Whenever I thought about the plant, I would quietly hum the hindi song 'musu musu hasi' 🤭 I stumbled on this trailing plant many a times but never had the opportunity to forage and cook it. Finally, this time I spotted them growing wild in my parents’ backyard. After rounds of making sure it is the correct plant, I finally foraged the tender leaves and cooked with it. Another post follows on my cooking experiments. For today, let's look at how to identify this plant and its properties. Musumusukai is a perennial herb that either climbs or trails depending on the habitat around it. The leaves are heart shaped and often gets confused with the leaves of Ivy Gourd. The way to differentiate between both is Ivy Gourd leaves are glossy and have a waxy coating on it whereas Musumusukkai leaves are coarse and have a slight velvety feel to it. Flowers are tiny and the fruits look like tiny watermelons. The leaves are very much edible and can be added to your food in all the different ways you prefer such as adding the leaves to the dosa batter! I am still learning about this forgotten green so any information you have do share with me! Especially about the fruits. . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #purslane #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood #musumusukkai #mukia #madraspeapumpkin
Back in 2007, during my college days, a friend of mine went on a mission to decode the ingredients of various hair oils and craft her own concoction. She discovered that one common ingredient in many of these oils was ‘bhringraj’, a mystical herb frequently touted for its hair growth benefits in TV ads. However, the intriguing part was that none of us knew what this herb actually looked like. The idea of going into the forest to find it seemed quite far-fetched, so she decided to skip it in her recipe. Fast forward a few years, and I stumbled upon a herbaceous plant with delicate, white, daisy-like flowers in my parents' lush backyard. I asked the older members of the household about it, and they identified it as ‘kaiyonni' They reminisced about a time when they used to make hair oils from it but lamented how modern times left no room for such traditions. I decided to investigate further and used Google Lens to identify the plant as ‘False daisy’, which is indeed used in hair oils. But the real revelation came when, while researching uncultivated plants for body care, I found a Hindi YouTube channel that featured False daisy, with ‘bhringraj’ written on it. It was a eureka moment – the culmination of years of unknowingly preparing myself to appreciate this discovery. And so, that's how I met bhringraj, not deep in a dense forest, but right in our own backyard. It's a testament to the hidden treasures nature can offer us when we pay attention. If you're curious to learn more about this medicinal herb, simply Google ‘bhringraj’ and let the internet take you on a fascinating journey of information. 🌿🔍 . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #bhringraj #falsedaisy
🌱 Unearth the Treasures of Uncommon Greens! 🌿 Did you know that beyond the usual lettuce and spinach, there's a world of lesser-known leafy greens that pack a punch both in flavor and nutrition? 🥗✨ Let's dive into the fascinating realm of "Amaranth and Mizuna Melody." 🎵🍽️ Amaranth's vibrant crimson leaves and mizuna's peppery, delicate bite are the stars of this salad. Toss them with roasted pumpkin seeds, tangy pomegranate arils, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It's a symphony of flavors and colors that your taste buds will thank you for! 😋🌈 Now, for our Indian food enthusiasts, here's an alternate twist: "Spiced Amaranth Paratha!" 🍛🌱 Swap your regular paratha stuffing with sautéed amaranth leaves spiced with cumin, coriander, and a hint of chili. It's a wholesome, nutrient-packed flatbread that's both delicious and nutritious. 🇮🇳👩🍳 Ready to explore the world of forgotten greens and infuse your meals with a burst of flavor and nutrition? Share your favorite leafy green recipes in the comments below! 🌿🍴 🥬✨ #forgottengreens #nutritiondelight #eatyourgreens #nutritioncoach #greens #nutriliciousquest #mondaymotivation #dietrecipes_breakfast #breakfast #recipeideas #easy #facts
Journeying into Ganesh Chaturthi: Where Mythology Meets Ecology As I grow older and begin to embrace festivals on my own terms, I’ve been discovering a world of stories and traditions that I can pick and choose from. Living away from home, this helps me feel connected to the culture and community around me! Let me take you on a journey to the vibrant streets of southern states like Karnataka, Telangana and Tamil Nadu, where Ganesh Chaturthi brings nature and celebrations together every year. Imagine, centuries ago, Lord Ganesha consuming a demon and then blades of Bermuda grass to soothe the burning sensation in his belly after devouring the demon. This legendary tale not-so-subtly emphasizes the significant role Bermuda grass plays in our health system when consumed and its mighty power to cool the system. It's an essential offering to the pot-bellied god. Ganesh Chaturthi isn't merely a celebration; it's a harmonious dance with nature. Our offerings are intricately woven from the local flora, ranging from humble Bermuda grass to the exquisite Calotropis flowers. Each petal, each blade, narrates a story of our profound connection to the environment. And there's more beneath the surface. Leucas aspera, a sacred offering, isn't just a tradition; it's an integral part of culinary practices during this festival in various parts of the country. It's believed to bestow health benefits, serving as a reminder that our festival isn't solely for the soul; it nourishes the body too. In Ganesh Chaturthi, we discover a tapestry woven with threads of mythology, the beauty of nature, cultural richness, and the pursuit of well-being. It's a timeless tale of tradition evolving while remaining deeply rooted. 🌿🐘🌼 . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #regenerativeagriculture #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #celebrationoflife #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #mythologyandecology #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram
My first encounter with this leafy green happened at Parry’s market in Chennai. A patti amma was peddling it on the footpath, neatly wrapped in small plastic bags. When she noticed my curiosity, she called out in her Chennai Tamil slang and exclaimed, "Ma! This is pasalai keerai, delicious to taste. Take it home and cook it for your husband," referring to the male friend accompanying me that day. I photographed the greens and shared it on this handle, making it one of my earliest posts. I asked the online community for its name. While most identified it as Wild Purslane, nobody could pinpoint its botanical name. That is, until one day, when @odiafoodstories posted about these greens, and I finally had my answer! Allow me to introduce you to Portulaca quadrifida, a diminutive succulent plant that takes root at nodes and spreads as ground cover, a good live mulch option for small scale gardeners. It features in numerous traditional culinary practices across India. Once I became acquainted with this plant, I started spotting it everywhere. You need to keep a sharp eye on the soil, as it has a talent for blending in, but its tiny yellow flowers never fail to stand out! This plant readily propagates itself through its root nodes. It thrives in moderately hot climates but doesn't fare well in excessively wet conditions. Is Wild Purslane a common culinary weed in your region? What do you call it and how do you incorporate it into your cuisine? . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #regenerativeagriculture #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #permaculturegarden #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #purslane #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood #wildpurslane
Balsam everywhere ….. Impatiens balsamina found growing wild in tropical thickets of South Gujarat. Indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, Balsam is an annual seen during three months in monsoon. Locals here call it ‘Tann Manniya.’ #wildplants #wilderness #forgottengreens #balsam #floraofindia #floral #botany #impatiensbalsamina
All about WILD FOOD FEAST 🌱 In collaboration with @forgottengreens at @hamsahorganic farm on 27/8/2023 We had so much fun foraging and curating a wild table for our hungry and curious participants. We offered a diverse range of flavours with our 8 course tasting menu using freshly foraged wild edibles from the farm. The idea was to showcase global food using the local ingredients rather than a traditional recipe. Foraging and incorporating "Forgotten greens" encourages appreciation and conservation of local biodiversity. Promotes a deeper connection with the natural environment by fostering an understanding of the ecological value of these often overlooked plants. We can also reduce our carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances and support local ecosystems. Swipe LEFT 👈 to check out WILD FOOD FEAST We thank all of our participants for joining us in appreciating our natural world. Looking forward to curating more of WILD FOOD FEAST 🌱 🥂 See you soon 🌱🙏 #wildfoodfeast #sustainablepalate #forgottengreens #foragersfeast #foraging #wildediblegreens #decolonizefood #eatyourgreens #plantbased
It’s heartening to witness people going back to their roots and tracing their food. The palates are evolving and people are welcoming new experiences. Another Wild Food Festival was held in Bangalore yesterday. . . #thesamyatimagazine #samyati #thechefsarena #wildfoods #forgottengreens
We are coming to Bengaluru with a new offering, in collaboration with @hungryalien_in ☘️ Forgotten Greens invites you to the Wild Food Feast, a unique opportunity curated for you to explore the world of wild edibles in Bangalore! The event will be facilitated by @shrutitharayil and you'll have the chance to taste the wilderness through a wonderfully curated feast by Chef Shreya Gazmer of @hungryalien_in Join us in this opportunity to rewild one meal at a time. Head to the link to register, and as always, don't forget to spread the word! #rewilding #wildfoodfeast #forgottengreens #wildfoodsofbangalore #hamsahorganicfarm #wildedibles
Thagathe soppina vade perfectly accompanies Rasam -rice during the monsoon season. The leaves are carefully selected, cleaned, and mixed with a flavorful blend of spices and other ingredients. The mixture is then shaped into small round patties and deep-fried to a crispy golden brown. The preparation and enjoyment of Thagathe Soppu Vade not only provide a delicious treat and celebrate the natural abundance of the rainy season in the coastal regions, making it a cherished monsoon delicacy in the area. The recipe, which I have dealt with detail and available in my blog. The link is - https://shrikripa.in/2017/07/11/thagathe-soppina-vadacassia-tora-fritters/ #shrikripa #ThagatheSoppinaVade #Fritters #monsoon #wildgreens #ediblegreens #healthmatters #forgottenfoodindia #forgottenknowledge #forgottengreen #forgottengreens #forgottengreensandhealingpowers #wildediblefood #wildediblefood #wildfoodheritage #wildedibleplants #wilderness #monsoonforaging #monsoonwildediblegreens #foragedfood #foragingindia #forager #foragersofinstagram #foragersofindia #plantsofindia #stinkingcassia #senna #sennatora #cassiatora #monsoonspecial #monsoonvegetables
#karnataka has been lucky for my garden. Got as small palm size twigs from friends have turned into a garden of its own. Malabar spinach, in the first picture gifted to me in Bangalore last year by a dear friend Aruna and Talinum in next two pictures gifted in Dharwad by Dr. Sanjeev Kulkarni 10 years back... #greengarden #backyardgarden #forgottengreens
It is monsoon season, which means it is time to enjoy fresh uncultivated foods from nature's bounty! Across India, various culinary practices involve consuming what's growing fresh in nature. Today's post aims to document well-known uncultivated foods that appear during this time of the year and find their way to people's plates in different forms and flavors. Some of these greens are hyper-local seasonal varieties specific to the western regions and monsoons, while others are available all over India. Some accounts that we learn about monsoon greens from and you should too are: @nutritionistaditiprabhu @varada_farms @mohraanfarms Do share in the comments the monsoon greens found in your region and how you like to eat them! . . . . . . . . . . . #forgottengreens #indianfoodmovement #slowfood #rewilding #theartofslowliving #rewildingindia #urbanforaging #wastenothing #wildfood #forgaingforfood #foragingindia #forager #localfoods #foragedfood #rewildingyourdiet #wildfoodlove #traditionalknowledge #traditionalwisdom #indigenouswisdom #growyourown #decolonizefood #culniarybiodiversity #foodspotting #instafood #ediblewildplants #herbsofinstagram #healingherbs #wildgreens #forgottenfood #foodstories