On Saturday, September 13, Arsha Vidya Mandir had opened its gates and come alive with vibrant colors, fresh aromas, and a strong sense of community spirit as it hosted the Chennai Organic Market on its campus. Organised by Chennai Organic Market (COM) and Organic Farmers Market(OFM) two non- profit initiatives the event had been designed to bring organic, eco-friendly living closer to families in and around Velachery. The school had proudly provided its premises, transforming its grounds into a lively space where sustainability and healthy living had taken center stage.
Rows of stalls had showcased an impressive variety of organic products. Families had explored traditional rice varieties, millets, pulses, and cold-pressed oils, while baskets of fresh fruits, vegetables, and more than 25 types of greens had drawn enthusiastic attention. For those with a sweet tooth, breads, cakes, cookies, smoothies, and snacks made with organic ingredients had been on offer, alongside health mixes, flours, herbal teas, and natural oils. Eco-conscious choices had been celebrated through bio-enzyme cleaning products and even a stall for clothes. Each product had been validated by OFM experts, ensuring complete trust in the organic authenticity of every purchase.
“The school grounds had been transformed into a vibrant hub where families had explored stalls filled with organic produce, wholesome snacks, and eco-friendly alternatives.”
The event had been more than just a market place, it had been a learning experience. Students of Business Studies, Economics, and Environmental Management had stepped in as volunteers, engaging with farmers and interacting with visitors while undertaking outreach projects. A special highlight had been the Palm Craft workshop, where children sat in circles weaving creativity with their hands, learning the art of working with natural materials. Laughter, curiosity, and discovery had filled the air, making the experience deeply enriching for both students and families.
“The Palm Craft workshop had brought children together in a circle of creativity, where little hands had been guided to weave magic out of nature’s gifts.”
Teachers had played a vital role in guiding student volunteers, ensuring safety and order, while also embodying eco-friendly practices by carrying their own reusable bags and containers. The event had not only promoted mindful consumption and waste reduction but had also reminded everyone that simple choices like what we eat, how we shop, and how we care for resources can make a big difference.
“The organic market had drawn enthusiastic participation from the community, with rows of stalls offering everything from fresh greens to natural oils, creating an atmosphere of connection and mindful living.”
The first ever Chennai Organic Market at Arsha Vidya Mandir had been marked by warmth, participation, and purpose. It had provided families an opportunity to access safe food, support farmers, and celebrate sustainable living, while students had been given the gift of real world learning. The day had not only been about buying and selling, it had been about building awareness, fostering community bonds, and reinforcing the values of sustainability and healthy living that Arsha Vidya Mandir continues to nurture. This was not just an event but the beginning of a community tradition rooted in values that the school has always cherished.