In a world where many young Goans dream of moving abroad, Rudy chose a different path — one rooted in soil, sustainability and Goa’s agricultural identity.
Speaking during a special conversation on Herald TV’s Herald Heroes segment, the young farmer shared his inspiring journey from childhood memories in the fields to becoming known for cultivating rare yellow watermelons.
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“Farming was in my blood,” Rudy said during the interview. “My parents and grandparents were all farmers. When my grandmother went to the fields, she always took me along. That’s where my love for farming started.”
Rudy recalled how his interest in farming grew stronger over the years, especially during school, where agricultural lessons encouraged him to take the field seriously.
Unlike many youngsters his age who pursue opportunities overseas, Rudy decided to remain in Goa and dedicate himself fully to agriculture.
“I don’t want to leave Goa,” he said. “My siblings work abroad, but I told my family I would never go. I love farming. I love Goa.”
His decision has now made him one of the most talked-about young farmers online, especially after introducing yellow watermelons — a sweeter variety that caught the attention of both locals and social media audiences.
Interestingly, the idea came entirely by accident.
“I had ordered different seeds, but these arrived instead,” Rudy laughed. “We grew a few at first and gave them to people. Everyone loved them.”
According to Rudy, the yellow watermelon tastes sweeter than the regular red variety and has received an overwhelmingly positive response from customers.
Now in his third year of full-time farming, Rudy practices integrated and organic farming. His farm includes cows, goats, rabbits and chickens, creating a self-sustaining agricultural cycle without the use of chemical pesticides.
“We use everything naturally,” he explained. “The waste from animals goes back into the fields. It’s a complete cycle.”
While the journey has not been easy financially, Rudy believes farming rewards patience, consistency and hard work.
“The first two years there was no profit,” he admitted. “This year the watermelons gave us profit. Farming is slow, but there is money if you work hard.”
He also believes farming has immense potential for the younger generation if approached with dedication and innovation.
“There’s a big market for farming,” he said. “You need hard work, ideas and support from people.”
Ending the conversation with a message to youngsters, Rudy encouraged more youth to reconnect with nature and explore agriculture without fear.
“Farming is not difficult,” he said. “If you have passion, you can do it.”
In an age where many continue to chase opportunities abroad, Rudy’s story stands out as a reminder that sometimes the boldest choice is staying rooted at home and building something meaningful for Goa.
