Kottayam —
The serene village of Kozha in Kottayam district transformed into a vibrant hub of rural celebration as the much-awaited Kozha Farm Fest brought together farmers, youth, families, and tourists for a unique blend of agriculture, sports, and traditional entertainment.
Held amid lush paddy fields and farmlands, the festival showcased Kerala’s deep connection with agriculture while adding a modern, festive touch through innovative events such as mud football, farm exhibitions, and cultural performances. The fest drew large crowds from across central Kerala, turning Kozha into a weekend destination.
Mud Football Steals the Spotlight
One of the biggest attractions of the Kozha Farm Fest was the mud football tournament, conducted in a water-logged paddy field. Teams from various regions competed barefoot, sliding through slush as cheering spectators lined the field.
The muddy contest not only provided thrilling entertainment but also symbolised Kerala’s agrarian roots, reminding participants of the physical connection between sport, soil, and tradition. Laughter, cheers, and friendly rivalry filled the air as players battled it out in the mud, making it a visual highlight of the festival.
Celebrating Farmers and Rural Life
At its core, Kozha Farm Fest aimed to honour farmers and agricultural traditions. The event featured exhibitions of organic farming methods, traditional seeds, farm tools, and locally grown produce. Farmers interacted directly with visitors, sharing knowledge about sustainable agriculture and modern techniques blended with age-old practices.
Stalls selling fresh vegetables, fruits, homemade food items, and traditional snacks attracted visitors, offering a taste of authentic village life. For many urban visitors, the fest became a rare opportunity to reconnect with the farming culture that sustains Kerala.
Cultural Programmes and Community Participation
Adding colour to the agricultural theme were cultural programmes, including folk songs, traditional percussion performances, and local art displays. Children’s activities, rural games, and interactive sessions ensured participation across age groups, making the festival a family-friendly event.
Local residents played a key role in organising and managing the fest, highlighting the strong community spirit that defines Kozha. Volunteers, farmers, youth groups, and cultural organisations worked together to ensure the smooth conduct of the programme.
Boost to Tourism and Local Economy
The Kozha Farm Fest also provided a boost to rural tourism in Kottayam district. Visitors from neighbouring towns and districts explored the village, benefiting local vendors, farmers, and small businesses.
Officials and organisers noted that such festivals help promote agri-tourism, create awareness about farming challenges, and encourage younger generations to value agriculture as both a livelihood and a way of life.
A Festival Rooted in Soil and Spirit
By blending farming traditions with sport, culture, and community celebration, the Kozha Farm Fest successfully created a platform that honoured Kerala’s rural identity while offering modern entertainment. As muddy feet and smiling faces marked the end of the event, Kozha stood out as a powerful reminder that festivals rooted in the soil can bring people together like no other.