In the lush green state of Kerala, where agriculture and cultural traditions intertwine seamlessly, few crops hold as much significance as the banana. Revered not just as a staple food item but also as a cultural symbol, the banana plays a vital role in Kerala’s culinary, spiritual, and economic landscape. It is no surprise, then, that the state once hosted a vibrant celebration of this beloved fruit — the National Banana Festival.
In This Article:
A Festival Rooted in Culture and Agriculture
The first National Banana Festival (NBF) was organized from February 17 to 21, 2018, at the Kalliyoor Grama Panchayat in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. This unique event was initiated by the Banana Research Centre, in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and other agricultural institutions, aiming to highlight the economic, nutritional, and cultural importance of bananas.
Although the festival hasn’t been held annually in recent years, its impact still resonates through the continued attention given to bananas in Kerala’s agrarian and culinary space.
Key Highlights of the Festival
Banana Exhibition:
Over 150 varieties of bananas from across India and the world were displayed, including local Kerala cultivars like:
- Nendran – Popular for chips and steamed dishes
- Poovan – Sweet and aromatic
- Red Banana (Chenkadali) – Rich in nutrients
- Palayankodan, Kannan, and more
Banana-Based Food Court:
Dozens of stalls served an array of banana-based dishes, ranging from:
- Banana Chips (Upperi) – Fried to golden perfection
- Banana Halwa – A dense, sweet delicacy
- Steamed Nendran with Jaggery
- Banana Stem Juice and Banana Flower Vadas
Workshops and Seminars:
Agricultural scientists and experts conducted sessions on:
- Sustainable banana cultivation
- Pest management and organic farming techniques
- Post-harvest technologies and value addition
- The role of bananas in traditional medicine (Ayurveda)
Innovation and Entrepreneurship:
- Entrepreneurs showcased banana fiber products like eco-friendly bags, table mats, decor, and handicrafts.
- Startups demonstrated processing units for banana flour and chips.
- Farmers received training on exporting and value-chain optimization.
Why Kerala Celebrates Bananas
Cultural Significance:
- Onam Sadya, Kerala’s iconic vegetarian feast, is served on banana leaves and includes banana chips and pazham (banana).
- In temples, bananas are used as offerings and prasad.
- Bananas and plantain stems are often part of wedding rituals and housewarming ceremonies.
Economic Impact:
- Kerala is one of India’s top producers of banana varieties, with Nendran being the most exported.
- Banana cultivation supports thousands of small-scale farmers and contributes significantly to rural income.
Nutritional Value:
Bananas are rich in:
- Potassium and magnesium
- Dietary fiber
- Vitamin B6 and C
- Antioxidants and natural sugars
They’re a vital part of the daily diet across Kerala, consumed raw, steamed, fried, or dried.
Beyond the Festival: Everyday Banana Culture in Kerala
Even beyond the formal celebration of the Banana Festival, the fruit finds daily prominence in Kerala life:
- School snacks, where children enjoy sliced banana with sugar and grated coconut
- Pregnancy diets, where steamed bananas are a recommended energy source
- Banana leaf packaging, an eco-conscious tradition still in practice
- Home remedies, where banana stem juice is used to treat kidney stones and aid digestion
The Future of Banana Celebrations in Kerala
Given the success and popularity of the 2018 festival, there is growing interest among agricultural departments and food tourism organizations to revive the Banana Festival in the coming years. With Kerala’s push toward eco-tourism and agro-innovation, the banana may once again take center stage in a revamped, modern avatar of the festival.
Moving Forward
In Kerala, the banana is more than just a fruit — it is a cultural icon, a livelihood, and a symbol of abundance. Whether served on a plate, used in rituals, or showcased in a food festival, its presence is deeply woven into the fabric of Malayali life. The Banana Festival stands as a testament to this connection — a celebration not just of food, but of heritage, sustainability, and community.
By – Nikita
