The Unlikely Buddha

Rice is one of the most important staple crops in the world, feeding billions of people daily. However, its cultivation faces significant challenges due to climate change, particularly in regions where rising sea levels and increasing soil salinity threaten traditional farming practices.  The Sundarbans—a unique delta region spanning the border between Bangladesh and India—offers a remarkable example of how ancient agricultural knowledge can provide solutions to modern problems.   The Sundarbans: A Land of Resilient Agriculture   The Sundarbans, located in the delta of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its mangrove forests and rich biodiversity. It is also home to a long tradition of rice cultivation. Farmers in this region have historically grown rice varieties that are uniquely adapted to harsh conditions, including drought, high salinity, and even seawater.   These "dirty rices," as they are som...