Kozhikode: A group of college students in Kozhikode has turned lessons in mushroom cultivation into a successful entrepreneurial venture under the brand name 'Devshroom'. 

The initiative, launched in September 2023 by third year botany students of Devagiri St. Joseph’s College, began with 15 mushroom beds and now operates more than 90 in a dedicated room renovated by the college management. The initial capital came from the Botany Department’s revolving fund.

Students cultivate the HU strain of shiitake and pink oyster mushrooms, sourcing spawn from the Agri Business Incubation Centre at Bharatiya Sugandhavila Research Centre under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The growing medium, mushpellet, is supplied by Monsoon Mushrooms in Kannur.

In March 2025, the unit marketed over 15 kilograms of mushrooms from just 20 beds. Priced at ₹40 per 100 grams, the produce is sold outside the college under the 'Devshroom' brand, which has secured FSSAI registration. Profits are distributed among the participating students.

The students now aim to expand the project by adding more beds, producing their own spawn, offering training to the public, and setting up a processing unit. Research to improve yield is also part of their plans.

The initiative is being guided by Botany teacher Dr SL Soumya, with the support of College Principal Fr Dr Biju Joseph, Administrator Fr Dr Bonnie Augustine, Head of the Botany Department Dr Sebastian, Vice Principal Dr Satheesh George and others.