Veg Mutton: Rare Wild Vegetable Bhutki, Grown from Forest Fires, Sells for ₹1000/kg

• Bhutki, a wild vegetable also known as 'Veg Mutton', grows from forest fires and is priced at ₹1000 per kilo.
• It is primarily consumed by the Uraon tribe in West Champaran, Bihar, and Tharu people in Nepal's southern plains.
• The vegetable grows around termite mounds in Valmiki Nagar forest, attracting bears to its growing areas.
• Bhutki grows during the rainy season in dense forests, making its collection difficult, dangerous, and a legal offense under forest law.
• Despite restrictions, Adivasis collect and sell it, with its black exterior attributed to growing in ash from forest fires; its taste is compared to mutton.

Why It Matters: Bhutki, a rare wild vegetable resembling mutton, thrives after forest fires and fetches high prices.