Why did PM Modi specifically mention 10 traditional Indian summer drinks?
As soon as the summer season starts, the biggest challenge is to keep yourself fresh and hydrated. Strong sunlight, sweat and rising temperatures can sometimes make the body feel tired. At such times, people look for different things to get relief. Some people prefer packaged drinks, while others still rely on the old home-made Indian drinks. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again drew people’s attention towards Indian alternatives by mentioning India’s traditional summer drinks in his Mann Ki Baat programme.
In India, the tradition of changing food habits according to the season is quite old. Just as jaggery, sesame and hot things are considered important in winter, similarly, in summer, such drinks are preferred which are considered to make the body feel light and refreshed. This is the reason why different states have their own special identity of traditional drinks. At some places, mango panna is popular, while at other places, sattu or buttermilk is preferred more.
In his address, PM Modi stressed that adopting local and traditional things is not just limited to food, but it is also a way to connect with our culture and old traditions. He said that there are many such drinks in India which have been a part of summer for generations and still maintain their place among the people.
Even today, when ready-to-drink beverages are easily available everywhere, the popularity of traditional drinks has not ended. Rather, many people are now returning to old home options. In such a situation, if you also want to try something refreshing and desi this summer, then let us know about those 10 traditional Indian summer drinks which are in the news.
PM Modi’s Mann Ki Baat: Summer Drinks: 10 Indian Drinks That Provide Relief in the Summer
- Sattu Sharbat
Sattu Sharbat is a popular summer drink in eastern India, especially in parts of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Made from roasted gram flour (sattu), this drink has long been an integral part of daily life in rural communities. Many people consider it a filling and refreshing option in hot weather.
- Buttermilk (Chaas)
Buttermilk has a special significance in Indian homes. It is especially popular as an accompaniment to lunch. In many places, the taste is enhanced by adding roasted cumin, mint and black salt. It is considered a light and refreshing drink in summer.
- Lassi
The very mention of lassi brings to mind Punjab and North India. Be it sweet or salty, there is a different craze for it in summer. Many people like to drink it cold, especially on a hot afternoon.
- Aam Panna
Aam Panna, made from raw mangoes, is a very popular summer drink. Its sweet and sour taste is liked by everyone from children to adults. Even today, it remains a part of the special summer recipe in many homes.
- Bael Panna
Bael sherbet, or Bael Panna, has been made in the summer since ancient times. Many consider it a traditional and easy-to-make drink at home. Even today it is very popular in villages and small towns.
- Kokum Sharbat
Kokum Sharbat is quite popular in Maharashtra and the western coastal areas. People like its slightly sour taste. Many people choose it as a refreshing option in summer.
- Neer Mor
Neer Mor is a popular traditional drink in South India. It is prepared with spices and curd and is seen as an everyday drink during summers in many households.
- Solkadhi
Solkadi is a popular dish in Konkan and parts of Maharashtra. This drink made from coconut and kokum is also taken with food. Many people consider it a refreshing option in summer.
- Sambaram
Sambaram is a traditional drink popular in South India, especially Kerala. It is prepared using spices and yogurt. Many consider it a light and tasty summer option.
- Panakam
Panakam is a traditional South Indian drink, made for special occasions and during the summer. This drink prepared from jaggery, ginger and
spices is considered a part of tradition in many families.
The Indian Summer Drinks List reminds us not only of taste but also of tradition.
While rapidly changing lifestyles have seen many old things being left behind, traditional drinks remain a part of people’s memories and habits. Perhaps this is the reason that when PM Modi mentioned these drinks in his program, many people remembered the kitchens of their homes and the summer days of their childhood.
Desi summer drinks are not just limited to taste, but also have a cultural connection associated with them. Every state has its own special drink, which becomes a part of its identity. At some places people like buttermilk more, while at other places Sattu or wood apple sherbet is more popular.
If we look closely, the most special thing about the old Indian options is that they are easily made at home and make people feel at home. At a time when processed drinks are everywhere, returning to traditional drinks is becoming a nostalgic experience for many.
At present, it can definitely be said that these 10 traditional Indian summer drinks are not just drinks that provide relief from the heat, but also give a beautiful glimpse of the food culture of India. Perhaps this is the reason why even today it has a place in both people’s hearts and kitchens.
