In the heart of Vijayawada, where hybrid seeds are the norm for urban gardeners, one man is leading a quiet revolution from his rooftop. Penumatsa Shyam Kumar has dedicated nearly 15 years to transforming his 200-square-yard terrace in Andhra Prabha Colony, Ajit Singh Nagar, into a thriving oasis of indigenous flora. His mission is to revive vegetable varieties that have all but disappeared from mainstream cultivation.
From Personal Quest to Conservation Mission
What started as a simple desire to provide chemical-free vegetables for his daughter has blossomed into a comprehensive model for native seed conservation. Shyam, who is self-employed, now cultivates an impressive array of more than 40 different crop varieties. His green haven includes greens, vegetables, fruits, medicinal plants, and flowers, creating a biodiversity hotspot that attracts birds, butterflies, and curious visitors.
"Plants give me peace," Shyam shares. "They remind me that with little care, we can grow food that is pure and meaningful." This philosophy drives his daily work and his outreach to the community.
The Crown Jewel: Rare Indigenous Bottle Gourds
Shyam's most significant contribution lies in his conservation of rare indigenous bottle gourd varieties, many of which have vanished from regular farming. He has spent close to a decade collecting and nurturing these precious seeds. On his terrace, he currently grows several unique types, each with its own history and use.
His collection includes:
- Kuja Sora: A traditional tribal variety prized for its hard shell and extended shelf life.
- Enugu Thondam Sora (Elephant Trunk Shaped): A vine-heavy type once common in villages near forests.
- Charala Sora: Known for its distinct ribbed texture, now rarely seen in markets.
- Gummadi Sora: A thick-skinned gourd historically used in festive cooking.
- Delhi Sora: A long-necked native variety collected from northern regions.
- Nadaswara Sora: A non-edible type traditionally used by tribal communities to craft water containers and musical instruments.
Most of these varieties are unavailable in commercial markets, making Shyam's terrace a living museum and seed bank for agricultural heritage.
Building a Community of Urban Gardeners
Shyam's work extends far beyond the boundaries of his own home. He actively supports new terrace gardeners by sharing both seeds and his extensive knowledge. He is a key member of the WhatsApp group 'One Earth One Life', where he spreads awareness about cultivating vegetables in limited urban spaces.
His method involves traveling to different regions to collect native seeds directly from tribal families. He then experiments with them on his terrace, carefully studying how these traditional plants adapt to urban conditions. The seeds that thrive are then shared with fellow enthusiasts, ensuring their continued propagation.
By maintaining a personal seed bank and distributing native seeds, Shyam Kumar is not just growing plants; he is cultivating a movement. He demonstrates that urban spaces can be powerful centers for preserving India's rich agricultural biodiversity, one terrace at a time.
