In a significant recognition of Bihar's rich heritage, the humble 'sattu' has been officially celebrated as a global superfood gifted by the state to the world. The declaration came from a senior academic leader during a major educational conference in Patna.
Academic Leader Highlights Bihar's Dual Legacy
Vinay Kumar Pathak, the president of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), made these remarks while addressing a conference of East Zone university vice-chancellors in Patna on Monday. Pathak eloquently connected Bihar's intellectual history with its culinary contributions.
He stated that Bihar has not only been a global leader in education and traditional knowledge but also introduced the nutritional powerhouse known as sattu. This comes at a time when global interest is surging in India's wellness traditions, ranging from yoga and Ayurveda to its array of healing foods.
Sattu: The Nutritional Powerhouse with a Warrior's History
Pathak drew a powerful contrast, noting that Bihar gave the world sattu long before fast food became synonymous with unhealthy junk food. Once considered merely a poor man's meal, sattu is now rightly recognized as a high-protein, energy-rich superfood.
Its historical significance is profound. Sattu is known to have fueled ancient warriors in battle and sustained traders on their arduous journeys along the historic Silk Road. This simple flour, made from roasted grains, provided sustained energy and nutrition for demanding physical tasks.
Connecting Intellectual and Nutritional Heritage
The AIU president masterfully linked the state's intellectual and nutritional gifts. He highlighted that Bihar produced eminent scholars who pioneered foundational concepts like the decimal system, zero, and the value of pi.
In a fascinating anecdote, Pathak recalled that the great astronomer and mathematician Aryabhatta, from Pataliputra (modern-day Patna), first explained the value of pi to a woodcutter. This, he suggested, reflects how ancient scholars understood practical sustainability, a wisdom preserved in age-old texts.
Another participant at the conference echoed this sentiment, noting that sattu is finally receiving its due recognition on the global stage. As the world looks towards ancient wisdom for modern health solutions, this traditional Bihari staple is being rediscovered for its exceptional nutritional profile and sustainable qualities.
