Ethnic uses of Makhana (Euryale ferox Salisb.) in Mithila (north Bihar) and other parts of India

Abstract

The paper provides a report on the ethnic uses of Makhana (Euryale ferox Salisb.) in different parts of India including Mithila area of North Bihar that is known for being a site of its organized cultivation over centuries. In major parts of northern India E. ferox is available in wild or semi-wild forms. A survey on the ethnic uses of Makhana in Mithila and other parts of India has revealed its about a dozen distinct uses. These include its specific association with (i) ‘Kojaagaraa’ (a marital ritual) (ii) ‘Parikramaa’ (for maintaining counts during ritualistic circumambulation around a temple or tree) (iii) ‘Shraaddha Karma’ (last Hindu rites) (iv) Devotional offering to deities or distinguished persons in the form of non-flower garlands (v) ‘Prasaad’ (edible offering to deities) (vi) Sacred thread ‘Yajnopaveet’ as stiffening item (vii) ‘Makhaan Paagal’ i.e., caramelised pops (during Navratri and other festivals). It is used as a ‘Havan Saamagri’ and as a component of ‘Panchamevaa’ (i.e., five auspicious dry fruits). ‘Ghunes’, a head gear ceremonially worn by the bridegroom on the occasion of wedding has streams of Makhana pops hanging downward. This practice is observed by the Srotriyas in this area. The paper further incorporates its other traditional and modern uses mostly in the form of culinary preparations. These are also in practice in other areas of the country and abroad in the form of (i) 2 forms of snacks (ii) Dessert (iii) Sweetened Makhana (iv) Porridge (v) Dal Makhani (vi) Makhana Kofta and (vii) Makhana Dum Aloo.