Koraput’s GI-Tagged Kala Jeera Rice to Grace Puri Jagannath Temple’s Mahaprasad

Puri: A wave of pride is washing over Odisha’s Koraput district as its recently GI-tagged aromatic wonder, Kala Jeera rice, embarks on a sacred journey to grace the Mahaprasad offerings at the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri.

A delegation of 12 tribal women, who have meticulously cultivated and nurtured this unique rice variety, ceremoniously offered baskets of Kala Jeera rice at the Sabari Shreekhetra temple in Koraput before setting off for Puri today.

Hailing from the native soil of Odisha and meticulously produced by the Jaivik Shree Farmers Producers Company, Kala Jeera rice boasts an unparalleled aroma and slender, small grains. This miniature cousin of basmati rice has long tantalized taste buds with its versatility, starring in delectable dishes like pulao, kheer, and biryani.

Now, with the prestigious GI tag under its belt, Kala Jeera rice ascends to a new level of significance. Its inclusion in the Mahaprasad offerings at the Jagannath Temple marks a remarkable recognition of not only the rice’s exceptional quality but also the dedication and expertise of the tribal farmers who cultivate it.