How one farmer revived heritage rice to fight disease and poverty

Jakkula R. Thirupathi once worked as a businessman in Hyderabad. In 2015, he returned to his village of Nagapuri to care for his ailing father. This move led him to rediscover farming—and a mission to grow organic, nutrient-rich rice for better health.

His focus now is on Kalanamak, a heritage rice variety packed with iron, zinc, and protein. Thirupathi believes this low-glycemic grain can help fight disease, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Thirupathi’s shift to farming began after witnessing his father’s illness. Concerned about the health risks of chemical-heavy agriculture, he turned to organic methods. He started by cultivating Kalanamak rice on his family’s small plot, hoping its natural benefits could aid his father’s recovery.

The results inspired him to expand. Today, he grows Kalanamak and nine types of black rice on 1.5 acres. His annual profit reaches Rs 1 lakh, proving that organic farming can be both healthy and profitable.

His advocacy doesn’t stop at his fields. Thirupathi urges other farmers to adopt organic practices and revive indigenous crops. He warns that excessive pesticides harm not just the land but also children’s health. His goal is to scale up Kalanamak production to 3 acres, boosting global exports while improving farmer incomes.

During the pandemic, he promoted Kalanamak as an affordable way to strengthen immunity. Its high nutrient content makes it ideal for diabetics and those seeking better overall health. For Thirupathi, farming is no longer just a livelihood—it’s a way to heal communities. Thirupathi’s work has transformed his family’s land into a source of healthy food and steady income. By expanding Kalanamak cultivation, he aims to reach more farmers and consumers worldwide. His story shows how organic farming can restore health, support livelihoods, and preserve traditional crops.