“Vaibhav Patel and Aastha Maheshwari Patel pioneer saffron cultivation, bringing the essence of Kashmir to Vadodara”
In the bustling city of Vadodara, known more for its vibrant culture than saffron fields, a dynamic couple has embarked on an unconventional journey – cultivating the famed spice within the confines of their home. Vaibhav Patel and Aastha Maheshwari Patel have successfully turned a modest 10 X 10 room into a saffron haven, introducing a touch of Kashmir in the heart of Gujarat.
The idea sprouted from a desire to challenge the conventional norms associated with saffron cultivation, primarily confined to the valleys of Kashmir. Inspired by a vision to make agriculture accessible in small spaces, the couple delved into extensive research and adopted the aeroponic method, cultivating saffron through air and moisture.
Vaibhav Patel, primarily involved in stock and currency trading, found himself captivated by the intricate process of saffron cultivation. The couple kick-started their venture by ordering 400 kg of saffron seeds from Kashmir, a bold move that marked the beginning of their botanical experiment.
The journey began in May with meticulous planning, and by August, the first signs of success had blossomed in their saffron-filled room. Drawing on knowledge acquired from Kashmiri farmers, the couple mastered the art of cultivating saffron tubers, creating an environment akin to the picturesque landscapes of the Kashmir Valley.
To replicate the conditions of Kashmir, the couple installed humidifiers, fires, and chillers in their cultivation room. The temperature was carefully controlled, starting at 25 degrees Celsius and gradually decreasing to 10 degrees Celsius. The result – an atmosphere conducive to the growth of the delicate saffron flowers.
In their first month of cultivation, November, the couple witnessed the fruition of their labor with a yield of 20 to 25 grams of saffron. With an initial investment of five lakh rupees, the Patels are confident that their saffron venture will yield substantial returns. In the retail market, saffron fetches 500 to 700 rupees per gram, while the wholesale price ranges from 250 to 300 rupees.
Beyond financial aspirations, Vaibhav Patel and Aastha Maheshwari Patel aim to inspire others by proving that thriving cultivation is achievable in small spaces. Their pioneering efforts in saffron cultivation not only add a unique dimension to Vadodara’s agricultural landscape but also underscore the untapped potential within the realms of home-based farming.
The saffron variety cultivated by the Patels is the coveted Kashmiri Mogra, known for its exceptional quality. The scarcity of this spice, coupled with its high demand in various industries, contributes to its steep market prices. As the couple continues to nurture their saffron haven, they are not only cultivating a valuable spice but also sowing the seeds of inspiration for a new era of innovative, small-scale agriculture in urban settings.
