Last Updated:July 07, 2025, 10:26 IST
Rahul Raikwar from Mahoba earns Rs 50,000 monthly selling lotus fruit and seeds in Chhatarpur, turning pond produce into a thriving seasonal business
Known as ‘Chhatiya’ in the Chhatarpur region, ‘Kamal Gatta’ is a monsoon delicacy available only for a limited time starting late June. (Local18)
In a remarkable story of rural entrepreneurship, Rahul Raikwar, a resident of Belatal village (Jaitpur), Mahoba district, near Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, has carved a unique path to financial success by selling pond-harvested fruits. Travelling daily to Chhatarpur city, Rahul earns up to Rs 50,000 per month, capitalising on the seasonal bounty of lotus fruits, locally known as Kamal Gatta, lotus cucumber, and raw makhana.
Daily Routine And Earnings
Rahul begins his day early, commuting from his village to Chhatarpur city with his fresh harvest. He primarily sells Kamal Gatta at Rs 70 to Rs 80 per kg, earning around Rs 3,000 daily. His entire stock is typically sold by evening, after which he returns home, only to repeat the process the next day. During the post-monsoon season, when lotus flowers bloom abundantly, he employs local villagers to help with harvesting.
In addition to fresh produce, Rahul also dries lotus seeds for later sale and markets lotus peels, which are used in havan samagri (ritual materials). In winter, he transitions to selling water chestnuts.
Local Delicacy With High Demand
Known as Chhatiya in the Chhatarpur region, Kamal Gatta is a monsoon delicacy available only for a limited time starting late June. The short seasonal window and high local demand contribute to brisk sales and quick profits.
Rahul explains that nothing goes to waste. Any leftover produce is used at home to prepare traditional dishes such as vegetable curries and kheer from ground lotus seeds and peels — a practice deeply rooted in rural kitchens, though he’s unsure if city dwellers follow the same.
A Model Of Self-Reliance
Rahul’s story showcases how traditional knowledge and resourceful practices can turn natural resources into income. His daily hustle, combined with smart seasonal planning, reflects the growing trend of micro-entrepreneurship in rural India — where nature, tradition, and hard work combine to build livelihoods.
- Location :
Chhatarpur, India, India
- First Published:
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