Paathara Grain Storage Tradition Fades in Uddanam Region

In the Uddanam region of Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh, an old method of storing freshly harvested paddy is slowly fading away. This traditional practice, known locally as Paathara or Khoni, has been a part of rural life for many years. However, recent observations show that by 2026, very few households continue to use this method. The key highlights of the tradition include the way farmers store their rice after harvest. They dig a rectangular pit in the ground, line it with straw and clay, and seal it with cow dung. This creates a safe space where they can keep their paddy. The stored rice is used for household consumption, and it is valued for its unique taste and perceived health benefits. Interestingly, slight discoloration of the rice during storage is believed to enhance its flavor. The decline of the Paathara tradition is linked to several factors. Modern houses with limited space do not have enough room for digging pits. Changes in lifestyles and the use of new building materials mean that fewer families build or maintain these storage pits. As a result, the practice is now limited to only a few villages scattered across the region. For example, in Jalantara Saasanam village, only two Paatharas were built in 2026. Twenty years ago, nearly every household there had at least one. Currently, the tradition is mostly found in villages within Kanchili, Sompeta, and Itchapuram mandals. The disappearance of Paathara is part of a broader trend where traditional farming methods, like using bullock carts or building thatched homes, are also disappearing. This shift is significant because it marks a change in both farming practices and local culture. The traditional method was tied to Kharif-only paddy cultivation, which depended on the water from the Mahendratanaya canal. Today, the reliance on modern storage or imported rice reduces the importance of traditional methods like the Paathara. Experts say that the loss of this tradition also reflects changes in farming and living conditions. The old storage practice was practical and suited the local environment. Its decline indicates a move away from traditional farming, which could impact local food practices and cultural heritage. As of 2026, there is no official confirmation that efforts are underway to revive or preserve the Paathara tradition. This absence of organized initiatives means that the practice is likely to continue fading over time. The loss of this tradition raises concerns about the preservation of local culture and traditional knowledge. The fading practice of Paathara illustrates how modernization impacts rural traditions. It also shows how changes in housing and lifestyle can lead to the decline of customs that have been part of community life for generations. Understanding these changes helps highlight the importance of documenting and possibly conserving such traditional practices in the future. In summary, the traditional grain storage practice in the Uddanam region is on the decline. While it was once a common and valued part of rural life, modern housing, changing lifestyles, and newer farming methods are causing it to disappear. The future of this cultural practice remains uncertain, and no current measures are known to be taken to preserve it.