HYDERABAD: In the backyard of IT hub of Hi-Tec City is another flourishing industry, that of cattle farming. There are an estimated 30 big and small cattle sheds in Madhapur area alone and several more in adjoining areas. The owners, now big realtors and businessmen, are unwilling to use this land for anything else apart from rearing their cows and buffaloes. Owned largely by the local Yadav community, these cattle sheds are almost invisible as they are tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Hi-Tec City. But sometimes, when a herd of buffaloes sits nonchalantly in the middle of the traffic, one does get the hint of the existence of these pockets located in close quarters.
A stone's throw away from In Orbit mall, home to Louis Vuittons and Tommy Hilfigers, is one of the largest cattle sheds in the area with over 50 cows lazily munching on grass here. Not too far away is another cattle shed on the main road, rubbing shoulders with electronic goods showroom and high-end apartments. Owners of these sheds maintain that the development spree in this part of Hyderabad did not blind them. "We have never thought of disposing of this land or give it for development. I do not think I would want to leave this in the future as it is more of a tradition than a business for us," says M Srinivas Yadav, speaking hurriedly as he leaves to tend to the cattle in his shed.
Though land rates in this area have skyrocketed in the last decade, many here refused to part with their land or give it to builders for development. Observers note that land in this part of the city will only get dearer in the years to come and that is the reason why cattle shed owners are in no hurry to sell. Besides, most of the owners are real estate barons themselves and are in no urgent need of money. Having a cattle farm is a simple and effective way to make it encroacher-proof. Some locals who have made it big in different fields, say this is their way of staying in touch with their roots and culture. "Looking at the lucrative real estate market I have branched out into this business. Though I have other business interests, I have kept a small cattle shed only because I respect my culture and my forefathers who did this work," says a local businessman. But holding on to cattle sheds has paid off for its owners.
Dairy withstood changes
The rapidly changing demography of the area has in no way adversely affected this industry. In fact, it provided a much needed boost to it."We have a produce of more than 100 litres of milk daily and distribute it not only in this area but also adjoining ones," says Darogha Yadav, manager of the cattle shed behind Inorbit. A local milk vendor, B Ravi, explains, "We supply milk to not only residents but also corporate companies since there is an increasing demand for fresh milk compared to packaged ones." It is the same sentiment that's driving some youngsters too to take forward their family's cattle farming business. A student of degree second year, A Sai, makes it a point to visit his shed almost daily."However higher I study and wherever I work, I would always want to maintain our cattle shed," he said. He then goes on to share his Diwali plan, which isn't only about bursting crackers. "Every year, the day after Diwali, we have a festival, Sadar, where the buffaloes are decorated and paraded amidst celebrations. This tradition has been going on here for ages." And one that is likely to continue for much longer.
A stone's throw away from In Orbit mall, home to Louis Vuittons and Tommy Hilfigers, is one of the largest cattle sheds in the area with over 50 cows lazily munching on grass here. Not too far away is another cattle shed on the main road, rubbing shoulders with electronic goods showroom and high-end apartments. Owners of these sheds maintain that the development spree in this part of Hyderabad did not blind them. "We have never thought of disposing of this land or give it for development. I do not think I would want to leave this in the future as it is more of a tradition than a business for us," says M Srinivas Yadav, speaking hurriedly as he leaves to tend to the cattle in his shed.
Though land rates in this area have skyrocketed in the last decade, many here refused to part with their land or give it to builders for development. Observers note that land in this part of the city will only get dearer in the years to come and that is the reason why cattle shed owners are in no hurry to sell. Besides, most of the owners are real estate barons themselves and are in no urgent need of money. Having a cattle farm is a simple and effective way to make it encroacher-proof. Some locals who have made it big in different fields, say this is their way of staying in touch with their roots and culture. "Looking at the lucrative real estate market I have branched out into this business. Though I have other business interests, I have kept a small cattle shed only because I respect my culture and my forefathers who did this work," says a local businessman. But holding on to cattle sheds has paid off for its owners.
Dairy withstood changes
The rapidly changing demography of the area has in no way adversely affected this industry. In fact, it provided a much needed boost to it."We have a produce of more than 100 litres of milk daily and distribute it not only in this area but also adjoining ones," says Darogha Yadav, manager of the cattle shed behind Inorbit. A local milk vendor, B Ravi, explains, "We supply milk to not only residents but also corporate companies since there is an increasing demand for fresh milk compared to packaged ones." It is the same sentiment that's driving some youngsters too to take forward their family's cattle farming business. A student of degree second year, A Sai, makes it a point to visit his shed almost daily."However higher I study and wherever I work, I would always want to maintain our cattle shed," he said. He then goes on to share his Diwali plan, which isn't only about bursting crackers. "Every year, the day after Diwali, we have a festival, Sadar, where the buffaloes are decorated and paraded amidst celebrations. This tradition has been going on here for ages." And one that is likely to continue for much longer.
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