WAYANADAN KAIMA- The Queen of Biryani Rice

March 10, 2023
Blog Main Image

If Basmati rice is the star of north Indian biryanis, in south it’s the Kaima rice, specifically the Wayanadan Kaima rice, that steals the hearts. As an export company in India, we are committed to globalising our agricultural products. The Indian specialty rice known as Gandhakasala, also known as Wayanadan Kaima or Gandhakasala rice, is primarily used in the preparation of Biryani and is of exceptional quality for export. These short grains have a superior nutrient profile comparable to the long Basmati grains, are aromatic, and are simple to prepare. Due to its distinctive aroma, which enhances the flavour of the biryani, this rice variety is extensively used in weddings and other occasions. Compared to Basmati rice, it has shorter grains, but it is just as flavourful and aromatic.

The uniqueness of this rice is primarily attributed to the climatic conditions present in the cultivated region. The characteristics and the cultivation methods, contributes to the best expression of aroma and flavour in the final product. The uniqueness of the product is maintained by adopting organic cultivation methods. For better arome the crop is grown during the winter season, or the Nancha season, so that flowering happens during November and December, when temperatures are at their lowest. It is primarily grown in deep fields known as kundu vayals.

In addition to the benefits of high nutritional value, fine taste, and cooking properties, Gandakasala has traits that make it resistant to pests and diseases. These qualities make the rice ideal for special occasions like wedding feasts and other celebrations. Due to its unique qualities, the Government of India has protected it under the GI scheme (GI).

This little-known rice variety from the Wayanad tribal region of Kerala might soon find itself competing against the best rice exports from Asia, such as Basmati rice from India and Jasmine rice from Thailand. A research project carried out in collaboration with the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation in Chennai revealed the potential for Wayanadan Kaima rice, which is to compete in the German markets. The German Federal Ministry for Education and Research funded the research conducted by a team of German and Indian scientists as part of the Biodiva project. Through analysis of the available data and interviews with significant industry participants, the study examined rice’s marketing potential in Germany. The study concentrated on German-based businesses in the fair trade, organic, and gourmet food industries. The study found that there is currently a rising demand for Gandhakasala in Germany.

In addition to providing a lifeline for the Wayanad tribal people, the success of Gandhakasala would also help to preserve the region’s traditional rice varieties, which are currently in danger due to changes in land use.

As per Volza’s global export data, Kaima rice export shipments stood at 36, exported by 7 world exporters to 7 buyers. The world exports most of its Kaima rice to Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan at an ever-growing rate, increasing its demand all over the world. Amongst these countries, Saudi Arabia was the leading importer of Indian rice, with an export value of over 53 billion Indian rupees in the financial year 2022. According to the most recent reports for 2021, India, which is the world’s largest rice exporter, will export more than 46 million metric tons of basmati rice. Additionally, due to an increase in rice purchases by nearby nations like Bangladesh, Vietnam, and China, there has been a 46% increase in total rice exports over the previous year.

Jesvil Trading Corporation is committed to providing their customers with rice of the highest quality at reasonable prices. To guarantee that their products uphold the highest standards of quality, flavour, and aroma, we adhere to strict quality control procedures. Customers around the world have remained loyal to us because of our emphasis on customer satisfaction. We offer customised packaging options for various varieties of rice to suit the specific needs of our customers, making us a prominent rice exporter in India.