During the 134th episode of Mann Ki Baat on May 31, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the significance of traditional Indian summer drinks, emphasizing their role in reflecting the spirit of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.' He noted that these beverages are not just refreshments but integral parts of regional traditions, made from ingredients found in Indian kitchens and farms. Here is a look at the 10 desi drinks he mentioned.
Aam Panna (North India)
This traditional drink is made from raw mangoes, water, sugar or jaggery, mint, black salt, and roasted cumin powder. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, it boosts energy, improves digestion, and maintains hydration.
Lassi (Punjab and Haryana)
A curd-based beverage, sweet lassi is blended with sugar, chilled water or milk, and often flavored with cardamom, rose water, saffron, or dry fruits. It keeps the body cool and aids digestion.
Buttermilk (Rajasthan and Gujarat)
Also known as chaas, this drink is made by blending curd with water and spices like roasted cumin, black salt, coriander, or mint. It offers cooling and digestive benefits and provides probiotics.
Sattu Drink (Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh)
A high-protein beverage made from roasted gram flour, sattu is consumed in sweet or savory forms with water, lemon, black salt, cumin, jaggery, or sugar. It is cooling and rich in fiber, iron, and minerals.
Bael Panna (Odisha)
Made from the pulp of wood apple (bel fruit), this naturally sweet drink is cooling and refreshing. It is high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, supporting gut health and digestion.
Kokum Sherbet (Konkan and Goa)
A tangy-sweet drink from the kokum fruit, known for its deep reddish-purple color. It helps keep the body hydrated and is popular in coastal western India.
Sol Kadhi (Konkan and Goa)
This traditional beverage from Goa and Maharashtra is made with kokum and coconut milk. Rich in antioxidants, it supports gut health and hydration.
Panakam (South India)
A sweet and spicy South Indian drink prepared with jaggery, water, dry ginger, cardamom, and lemon juice. It is valued for its cooling and refreshing properties.
Neer Mor (South India)
Made from diluted buttermilk flavored with curry leaves, ginger, green chilies, coriander, and cumin, this drink is rich in probiotics and known for its cooling effect.
Sambaram (South India)
A traditional Kerala beverage made from buttermilk, water, ginger, green chilies, curry leaves, and salt. It hydrates the body and supports digestion due to its probiotic content.
PM Modi emphasized that these drinks embody the experience of generations and reflect the unity in diversity of India. He encouraged everyone to enjoy these desi drinks this summer.
