Paathara (Khoni) Practice
Kartavya Desk Staff
Source: TH
Subject: Art and Culture
Context: The ancient Paathara (or Khoni) grain storage tradition in Andhra Pradesh’s Srikakulam district is facing imminent extinction in January 2026.
About Paathara (Khoni) Practice:
What is it?
• Paathara (referred to as Khoni in Odia) is a traditional underground grain storage pit. It is a highly scientific, indigenous method used by farmers to preserve freshly harvested paddy for long-term household consumption and rituals.
Origin:
• Geographical Hub: Observed primarily in the Uddanam region of Srikakulam (Andhra Pradesh), along the banks of the Mahendratanaya River, near the Odisha border.
• Terrain Specificity: The tradition thrives in inland, hilly terrains. It is rarely found in coastal belts because high moisture levels in seaside soil can spoil the grain.
Key Features:
• The Structure: A rectangular or circular pit is dug into the earth, usually in front of the house or cattle shed.
• Insulation: The pit is meticulously plastered with straw and clay. A base layer of hand-woven straw ropes is laid to prevent ground moisture from touching the grain.
• Sealing: Once filled with paddy, the top is sealed with a thick layer of clay and cow dung, making it airtight and pest-proof.
• Ritualistic Start: The storage process begins with a puja, where women draw a bindi on the pit and offer wildflowers and paddy grains to ensure prosperity.
Significance:
• Superior flavour and health: Paathara-stored rice is valued as aged rice, with enhanced taste and better nutrition, including a lower glycaemic index—now preferred by health-conscious consumers.
• Natural pest control and security: Its airtight underground storage protects grain from insects and rodents without chemicals, while its location near homes reduces theft.
• Zero-waste sustainability: At a time when India loses nearly 10% of food grains to poor storage, Paathara stands out as a low-cost, zero-carbon method using only local, biodegradable materials.