Moolan Bamboo Rice — Rare Tribal Grain of Attapadi

Bamboo rice (moolan in Malayalam) is the seed grain that flowering bamboo produces once in 40–60 years before dying. Attapadi's Irula, Muduga, and Kurumba tribes collect it from Bambusa bambos groves in forests. The grain resembles wheat berries, is high in protein and fibre, and is consumed as a gruel or steamed. Because flowering is unpredictable and rare, bamboo rice is a delicacy and carries ceremonial significance at tribal festivals. The Forest Department issues collection permits to tribal families. It sells at Rs 150–200/kg at organic markets in Palakkad and Thrissur.