Mario Bautista
Maxy Viegas’ kitchen garden: Where organic okra and community spirit thrive
In Panjim’s vibrant suburb Taleigao, known for its scenic landscapes and lush fields, Maxy Viegas is redefining the concept of home gardening. What started as a simple hobby has blossomed into a flourishing organic okra farm right in his garden, inspiring neighbours and friends to embrace sustainable living and local food production
VITHALDAS HEGDE
PANJIM: Maxy, a 60-year-old retired government employee, turned to gardening in early 2024 as he found himself searching for productive ways to spend his time and create something meaningful. “I have always enjoyed gardening. And being very fond of my wife’s famous sungta bhendyachi codi, I thought, why not grow some of our own ingredients?”
Starting with a small batch, Maxy set himself the ambitious goal of growing organic okra (lady’s finger), a vegetable known for its health benefits and versatility in Goan cuisine. “Okra is used in many dishes here. I wanted to know exactly what I was consuming,” he explained as he walked through his garden, filled with vibrant green plants swaying gently in the breeze.
Maxy’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. He initially faced issues, so “I decided to educate myself on organic farming techniques. I read articles, watched videos,” he shared. This determined approach enabled him to devise natural solutions for pest control and soil fertility.
He incorporated sustainable practices, including crop rotation, companion planting, and the use of organic manure. One particularly effective method he adopted was creating a homemade pesticide using neem leaves, famed for their natural insect-repelling properties. “It felt rewarding to resolve problems without chemicals. It’s a holistic way of gardening,”
Maxy stated, his enthusiasm palpable.
As weeks turned into months, Maxy’s okra plants began to thrive, showcasing vibrant green pods with delicate yellow flowers adorning their tops. The satisfaction of witnessing his
efforts yield results kept him motivated. “Every time I saw a new okra pod, I felt a sense of pride. I had created
something with my own hands,”
he remarked.
Throughout the growing season, Maxy regularly invited friends and family to witness his green oasis and enjoy the fruits of his labour. “Maxy’s organic okra is not just delicious; it’s a testament to what can be achieved with passion and persistence,” shared Maria, a close friend who frequently joins him for meals filled with fresh produce from the garden.
Word spread quickly in the community about Maxy’s growing success. Neighbours began to show interest, seeking advice on how to start their own gardens. “It’s wonderful to see people become curious about growing their own food,” he said, recalling his interactions with curious onlookers and aspiring gardeners alike.
“I want to help others understand that gardening can be for anyone, regardless of space or experience,” he emphasised. His focus on organic pest management has proven particularly popular among urban dwellers.
As the harvest season approached, Maxy hosted a small gathering to celebrate the fruits of his labour. Friends and family gathered in his backyard, where he showcased an array of freshly picked okra, prepared in traditional Goan recipes. “Sharing this with my loved ones made all the effort worthwhile. There’s something special about eating what you’ve grown,” he said, beaming with pride as dishes filled with bhindi masala, stir-fried okra, and okra curry were served.
For Maxy, gardening has transformed from a simple pastime into a profound way of life. “It’s more than just growing food; it’s about reconnecting with nature, understanding where our food comes from, and fostering community ties,” he reflected.
As he looks to the future, Maxy plans to expand his gardening efforts and explore new varieties of vegetables. “If we can encourage even one person to start growing their own food, I’ll be incredibly happy,” he concluded, offering a handful of fresh okra to a visitor.
