In the sweltering heat of the Indian summer, the quest for a refreshing drink is a cultural experience in its own right. Across the vast landscape of India, beverages are meticulously crafted to counterbalance the relentless heat, offering hydration and a blend of flavours, traditions, and medicinal benefits deeply rooted in the country’s heritage.
One such drink passed down through generations is shikanji, a tangy, spiced lemonade that packs a punch. The perfect balance of sour, salty, and spicy flavours, often enhanced with roasted cumin, black salt, and a dash of mint, makes it the quintessential drink to counter the midday sun.
Then there’s Jaljeera, a drink with a kick. Spicy, tangy, and brimming with the boldness of cumin, mint, and sometimes even a touch of black pepper, this drink is as much a digestive tonic as a thirst-quencher. Its bold flavours cleanse the palate, invigorate the body, and settle the stomach. Jaljeera has the unique ability to awaken the senses with its exceptional zingy taste.
For those who need something a little more substantial, Sattu Sharbat comes into play. This drink, made from roasted gram flour, has been a staple for centuries. In the heat of summer, especially in the arid lands of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, farmers and labourers have long relied on Sattu to sustain them through long, gruelling days under the harsh sun. This hearty and nourishing drink is packed with protein and minerals that help replenish the body.
Chuak, a traditional rice beer from Tripura in Northeast India, is a unique addition to the conventional summer drinks repertoire. Made by fermenting rice, this mildly alcoholic beverage is typically enjoyed during the region’s summer months. In Tripura, it’s often brewed at home and shared among friends and families, marking the bonds of community, tradition, and hospitality. With its deep roots in tribal customs, Chuak adds a refreshing, earthy element to India’s diverse drinking culture.
Finally, there’s Aam Panna, a king’s tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy drink. Made from raw mangoes, this drink is known for its ability to combat heatstroke, a common affliction in India’s intense summers. Aam panna has been around for centuries, originally enjoyed by royalty and soldiers to cool down and stay hydrated during long battles or arduous travels. A tangy-sweet concoction combines raw mango pulp, roasted cumin, black salt, and a hint of jaggery, which not only refreshes but also rejuvenates. It’s the drink that brings out nostalgia in every Indian. Everyone swears by its medicinal properties as a summer must-have.
India’s summer thirst-quenchers are tied to the land and essential to the rhythm of the seasons. They’re an ode to this vast country’s diverse landscapes, climates, and cultures. Whether enjoyed in a bustling city or a sleepy village, each drink is dipped in tradition, wisdom, and a deep connection to the earth. So, next time you find yourself amid a scorching summer day, consider reaching for one of these culturally rich beverages. Taste history, sip tradition, and remember how generations of wisdom have shaped what we drink today.
