Local sustainability festival in Kochi to bring together creators, artists and eco entrepreneurs

Shop from local brands, artisans, farmers and creators at the Local Sustainable Fest starting on December 6. A two-day event that explores the possibilities of sustainable living, the festival, in its second edition, is a reminder to slow down and savor life, reconnect with one’s roots and create a sense of sharing, say organizers.

While it provides a platform to small businesses, artisans and independent creators to showcase their products and skills, it also lets buyers make a conscious choice.

Organized by Local Sustainable Living, a social enterprise that supports sustainability and facilitates local businesses, the first edition of the festival was a resounding success. It had 25 stalls from different parts of Kerala. “This year, the scope of the festival has increased; we will have over 50 curated stalls from across India,” says Naufal Mehboob, co-founder of Local Sustainable Living.

Local sustainable brands like Thachani Clothing, Kalpaka Lifestyle Store, Mochaflora, HempBoss launched their brands in the first edition of the festival and will be showcasing in the second edition as well.

One of the stalls at the first edition of the local sustainability festival. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Launched two years ago, 200 years old Tarwadu (Mansion), Local Sustainable Living Founded by Naufal and his cousin Mujeeb Latif, both from the advertising industry, Local Sustainable Living has created a community of like-minded individuals who believe in giving back to the planet.

“The first step was to create a physical space to ‘slow down.’ It’s old Tarwadu There is a pond and a sacred grove, an ecosystem that is fast disappearing from mainstream life. Here, one can get reacquainted with the old way of life, when everything was not about quick solutions,” says Nofal.

A demonstration held at the first edition of the local sustainability festival. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

It has a performance space where people can conduct workshops or events without worrying about ticket sales or returns. “We don’t charge any fees, but contributions are welcome,” Nofal says. The location also includes a store selling sustainable products.

This fest is one of the activities of Local Sustainable Living. The low-waste, eco-friendly setting, using mindful ingredients and choices that respect the planet, will in itself inspire people to think differently. Everything from stamps to art installations, everything is recycled or reusable. Each participant will also receive a reusable cloth bag, Naufal says.

This will include workshops on arts and crafts, upcycling and conscious thinking. Music and dance are also part of the festivities – Kerala-based folk fusion indie collective Orali will perform at 7.30pm on December 6; Javari, a London-based musical group that fuses Hindustani music with contemporary elements, will perform on December 7 at 6 pm, followed by Poothapattu, a traditional art form of North Malabar, by dancer Sujina Sreedharan and troupe at 8 pm.

Entry fee is ₹199 and ₹170 can be redeemed at any stall. More than five food stalls will be dedicated to local cuisine. Workshops will be organized on upcycling. Screening of documentaries and films on ecology will also be organised. Admission is free for children under 10 and can check out craft stations, take nature walks and participate in cultural activities.

On 6th and 7th December at Local Sustainable Living, Maradu. For information contact 8593096000.