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In one of our previous articles on Adivasi cuisine, we mentioned the eating habits of the tribal population of Jharkhand in detail. In this piece, we are going to talk about a few drinks preferred by the tribal people of this northeastern state.
Beverages have become an integral part of Indian festivities and marriages. Even Adivasis are not unversed with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. They may not be able to buy those expensive beverages but can surely make them using the flora around them. Let’s know about the two most consumed drinks by the tribals of Jharkhand.
Handia
If you ever happen to visit Jharkhand, Adivasi heartland, you would witness tribal women selling handia, a popular alcoholic drink by the roadside. Adivasis of Jharkhand prepare this by fermenting rice with a local herb. It is commonly referred to as rice wine or rice beer. However, in the Kolhan area, the drink is called Diang. Here, the fermented rice is mixed with water and acts as a coolant. Handia is an integral part of Adivasi rituals and festive occasions like Sarhul and Karma Pooja. Handia is highly nutritious and is consumed by everyone including men, women, children, and old individuals.
Mahua Brew
Picture Courtesy: Instagram/jehannumawilderness
This is another alcoholic drink that Adivasis love to imbibe. They prepare it at home using the flowers of the mahua tree. Mahua liquor is a special drink that is consumed mostly during family celebrations, rituals, or ceremonial occasions. Mahua is consumed in enormous quantity especially during the peak of summer.
When we are talking about alcoholic drinks how can we miss mentioning snacks? Dhuska is one of the most popular snacks among Jharkhand’s Adivasi community. It is basically deep-fried balls made of rice-based batter. They have it with gughni or chutney as a side dish. Burra is another snack that Adivasis relish. It is made of urad dal batter and deep-fried. Various other snacks are also munched on by the tribal population of the region but most of them are seasonal.
