In the heart of Bhimad-5, banana farming has always been a way of life. But with every harvest, heaps of banana pseudostems were left to rot—silently releasing harmful gases and symbolizing wasted potential.
Sandesh Gairhe, founder of EcoKanduk Venture, saw not waste, but possibility. Returning to his roots, he brought with him a mission—to transform what was once thrown away into a source of pride, income, and environmental healing.
In a powerful hands-on workshop, more than 70 farmers and local leaders learned to unlock the hidden strength of banana pseudostems. They watched them transform into golden fibers—ready to be made into tote bags, slippers, diaries, ropes, and textiles. Each strand held a promise: of reduced waste, of new livelihoods, and of a greener tomorrow.
But EcoKanduk didn’t stop at fibers. The training also sowed seeds for the future, introducing sustainable banana farming methods—better soil care, organic pest control, and techniques to grow healthier, more productive crops.
The workshop became a turning point for the community—sparking curiosity, building skills, and inspiring collective action. Farmers saw a new path forward. Local leaders stood in solidarity. The Mayor announced grants for commercial banana farming and pledged to expand the project to other wards. In that moment, Bhimad-5 wasn’t just learning a skill—it was embracing a vision.
EcoKanduk Venture’s journey proves that innovation doesn’t always come from far away—it can grow right where you are, from the soil beneath your feet. In Bhimad-5, what was once waste now weaves the story of resilience, empowerment, and a community determined to build a greener, brighter future—one banana stem at a time.