Sholavandan Vetrilai

Sholavandan Vetrilai is the betel leaf grown around Sholavandan on the banks of the Vaigai in Madurai district, valued for its tenderness, mild taste and pleasing aroma. The betel vines are raised in shaded, well-irrigated gardens on the fertile riverine soil, and the heart-shaped leaves are hand-picked and carefully graded before being bundled for market. The soil, climate and river water of the Sholavandan belt are credited with giving the leaf its soft texture and characteristic flavour that connoisseurs distinguish from other betel. Betel leaf is deeply embedded in Tamil hospitality and ritual, chewed as a digestive after meals and offered on weddings and auspicious occasions. The crop provides a steady livelihood for the betel-farming families of the Sholavandan area and feeds a lively regional betel trade.