It is difficult to notice Kudumbasree Ruchippura unless one searches for it. It stands hidden between Focus Mall and a multitude of fast food outlets opposite the Mofussil bus stand here.
That is why it comes as a surprise that Ruchippura makes a turnover of around Rs.25,000 a day. This humble initiative of the Kozhikode Corporation’s Central CDS (community development society), at its first anniversary, is now the talk of the town. It has opened a second outlet at Muthalakkulam and intends to open more branches and a mobile catering unit in the near future.
Ruchippura is the destination if you want a neat South Indian meal in the noon. The initiative also does outdoor catering where the delicacies are more diverse. Ruchippura is a regular participant in all the Kudumbasree exhibitions across the State featuring traditional delicacies. The unit is controlled by a six-member team from various ADSs (area development societies) in the Central CDS. Besides, they offer employment to ten more Kudumbasree members.
It was the success of the Rajaji Road outlet that motivated the group to start a new outlet at Muthalakkulam six months ago, which is handled by a three-member team.
‘A Chakka Mahotsavam’ (Jackfruit festival) is the main attraction of the first anniversary celebrations of Ruchippura that began on Saturday. The unit has prepared around 20 different delicacies with jackfruit, including biriyani, payasam, ada, vada, chips, pickle, jam, squash, pudding, halwa, puzhukku, pori, and sip-up. A jackfruit-eating competition was held on Saturday, heralding the 10-day festivities.
A variety of Thalassery special delicacies and other traditional food items will also be available at Ruchippura during these days.
As part of the first anniversary, the unit is planning to take to charitable activities too. Ruchippura secretary Sibija P. said that they were planning to sponsor two deserving candidates from the Corporation’s home for destitute women. Central CDS chairperson Beena K. shared her plans for a mobile catering unit. “The idea is to supply food prepared by Kudumbasree members to places such as the Government Medical College here at a reasonable price,” she said.