Celebrating South Indian traditions and culture

Sadya

This is a special meal reserved for occasions in Kerala, India. A variety of traditional vegetarian dishes and side dishes are served typically on a banana leaf. There can be about 25 dishes in a single course. People are seated cross-legged on the floor mats and food is eaten with the right hand with no…

Mridangam

Mridangam is an ancient percussion instrument originating in India. It is said to be a royal instrument especially in Tamil Nadu. It is used even today in music concerts mainly in Carnatic music. It has a unique tone due to the black patch in the middle. This patch is made out of mud particles and…

Ammikal

Ammikal is a kitchen utensil used for processing different foods in Indian cuisine. It has a flat stone and a grinding stone which is like the chappati roller (only much bigger and heavier). The roller is held with both the hands on the side and rolled over the item on the flat stone. Depending on…

Elephant with Decoration

When you think of Kerala and its temples, the first thing that probably comes to your mind is the elephant with decorations. The elephants in Kerala are mainly, Indian elephants. Most prominent temples in Kerala have their own elephants, either bought or donated by devotees. They form a part of the core worship in many…

Turmeric

Turmeric is part of the ginger family. It is perennial and is native to India. It is also called ‘the Golden Spice of India’. Though we know it as a kitchen staple, it has a long history of its use in ancient medicine and cultural traditions. Culinary Use It is used in almost all savoury…

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