The Nilgiris Earth Festival 2024 – Food, Culture, Ecology
Four days. A feast for the senses, in the heart of the Nilgiris.
From December 19–22, 2024, The Nilgiris Earth Festival (TNEF) will turn the Blue Mountains into a stage for rich culinary experiences and ecological learning.
TNEF is a vibrant annual celebration of food, culture, and ecology, uniting local communities and global voices to honor the rich heritage of this Biosphere Nilgiris. This immersive gathering spotlights indigenous foods, ancient traditions, and important conservation efforts, fostering meaningful connections and inspiring a shared commitment to safeguarding these landscapes for future generations.
Culinary Highlights:
Discover how you can be part of an intimate Chef’s Table where Award-winning chefs Prateek Sadhu and Gresham Fernandes transform locally sourced ingredients into contemporary dishes for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Delight in local organic produce with Vishanth Kumar at Red Hills, explore Nilgiris’ artisanal teas at Tranquilitea with Sandeep Subramani, and enjoy a traditional Badaga meal with cultural performances at Paruva, hosted by Dr. Suresh Belliraj. Added to this mix are inciteful workshops about heritage rice and millets with Devi Lakshmikutty and foraging forgotten greens with Shruti Tharayil.
The Habba:
Kotagiri’s Keystone Foundation will become a hub for indigenous foods, plenary talks, and a cozy market for locally sourced produce, honey, art, and products. An authentic indigenous lunch is a special highlight.
Film Screening – Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness
A meaningful film at The Habba, experience Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness, a stunning exploration of the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve.
Directed by: Sandesh Kadur
Executive Producer: Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies
Produced by: Felis Creations
TNEF Guest of Honour, Rohini Nilekani
A discussion between Guest of Honour, Author and Philanthropist Rohini Nilekani, and Sandesh Kadur, the filmmaker will follow this special screening.
Rohini Nilekani will also present the annual Nilgiris Earth Award during the event.
Nature and Reflection
Wander through Lovedale’s estates on a haiku-inspired creative walk with poet Shobhana Kumar.
Dates: December 19–22, 2024
Location: The Nilgiris – Ooty, Coonoor, and Kotagiri
Press Contacts:
Samyukta Somvanshi: samyukta@thenilgirisfoundation.org
About The Nilgiris Foundation
The Nilgiris Earth Festival is organized by The Nilgiris Foundation. Its vision is to conserve the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve’s unique culture, ecology, and heritage.
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Schedule:
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