Avinash Koul

My name is Avinash Koul, and I'm a saffron farmer from Pampore, Kashmir. Farming runs deep in my family's roots; my late grandfather, Janki Nath, was a devoted farmer whose passion for the land and its produce inspired me from a young age. He instilled in me a profound love for the earth and a commitment to sustainable practices that honor our heritage.

I've been farming saffron for three generations, continuing the legacy my grandfather started. Growing up, I learned the intricacies of saffron cultivation from my family, and it became a passion that I carry forward.

The process of growing saffron begins with selecting the right corms and planting them in well-drained soil during late summer. After planting, the corms require careful watering and weeding. As autumn arrives, the saffron flowers bloom, and the delicate red stigmas are harvested by hand, usually in the early morning to preserve their quality. This process requires patience and precision, as each flower only produces three threads of saffron.

The main challenges I face include unpredictable weather, which can affect flowering and yield, as well as the labor-intensive nature of harvesting. Additionally, market fluctuations and maintaining the quality of saffron in a competitive market can be daunting.

Looking ahead, I aim to expand my farm and explore organic certification, which could enhance the quality of our saffron and open new market opportunities. I also plan to engage more with local and international buyers to create a sustainable network.

Farming saffron has deeply impacted my life by connecting me to my heritage and the land. It has taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of community, as we often work together during the harvest season.

What I enjoy most about farming is the connection to nature and the satisfaction of nurturing a crop from planting to harvest. Seeing the beautiful flowers bloom and knowing that they will become part of people's lives is incredibly fulfilling.

For young farmers, my advice is to stay committed and passionate about your work. Embrace innovation and seek knowledge continually. Building strong relationships with the community and other farmers can also provide invaluable support and resources.