What Is Makhana and How Is It Grown in Bihar? From Traditional Ponds to TirhutWala’s Value Chain

Discover What is Makhana and how is it Grown in Bihar, and how TirhutWala is modernising Bihar’s makhana ecosystem from farm to global markets.

What Is Makhana?

Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, is an edible seed obtained from an aquatic plant native to India. It is naturally rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals, making it a preferred choice for healthy snacking, fasting foods, and modern wellness diets. Because it is light, gluten-free, and easy to digest, makhana has gained popularity not only in India but also in international markets.

How Is Makhana Grown in Bihar?

Bihar is the backbone of India’s makhana production, contributing the largest share nationally. Cultivation is deeply rooted in the Mithila and Tirhut regions, especially districts such as Samastipur, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnia, and Araria.

1. Natural Water Bodies

Makhana is cultivated in shallow ponds and waterlogged fields with muddy, organic-rich soil. The ideal water depth is around 4–6 feet, with stagnant or slow-moving clean water—conditions naturally available in north Bihar.

2. Sowing and Crop Growth

Seeds are traditionally broadcast by hand into ponds between January and March. Over the next few months, the plant spreads across the water surface, developing large leaves and spiny fruits.

3. Manual Harvesting

After about 3–4 months (typically July to September), the fruits mature. Skilled workers manually dive into the ponds to harvest them—an art passed down through generations, mainly within the Mallah community.

4. Processing and Popping

Seeds are extracted from the fruits, sun-dried, roasted at high temperatures, and then popped either manually or with machines. The final product is cleaned, graded, and polished before being packed for consumption.

Tradition Meets Innovation: The TirhutWala Role

While makhana farming in Bihar is rooted in centuries-old wisdom, modern players like TirhutWala are transforming the ecosystem. TirhutWala works closely with farmers and processors in the Tirhut and Mithila regions to:

• Strengthen quality control and grading

• Promote value-added makhana products

• Build transparent, scalable farm-to-market supply chains

• Take Bihar’s makhana from local ponds to national and global markets

By combining traditional cultivation knowledge with modern processing, branding, and exports, TirhutWala is helping position makhana as a premium superfood while ensuring better income opportunities for Bihar’s farming communities.

In Summary

Makhana is more than a crop—it is Bihar’s agricultural heritage. With its unique pond-based cultivation, skilled harvesting communities, and new-age brands like TirhutWala adding value and market access, Bihar continues to remain the heart of India’s makhana story.