7 Bihari food items with a GI tag

Bihar is truly a land of flavors and talents. From maximum numbers of civil service aspirants to unique foods, the state is known for all things exceptional and famous. The state is also proud of its art, textiles, and culture, which made their way to GI tags. For the unversed, geographical indications, also known as GI tags, are signs that celebrate the specific geographical origin and possess qualities and characteristics that are essentially attributable to that place of origin. Scroll down to learn about 7 unique Bihari foods with GI tags, their specialties, and their benefits.

As per Bihar Bhawan online data, Geographical Indications Registry at Chennai granted GI tag to Silao Khaja, the traditional delicacy of Nalanda district of Bihar in 2018. Khaja is a multilayered, crispy sweet and conventional Bihari dessert.This Bihari dessert comprises around 15 layers of dough placed over one another. It has wheat flour, sugar, maida, ghee, cardamom, and aniseeds as its key ingredients. It is deep-fried until it turns crisp and is then soaked in the sugar syrup until they absorb the sugar syrup evenly.

In 2022, Mithila Makhana, also known as Makhana, is a special variety of aquatic fox nut cultivated in the Mithila region of Bihar and Nepal. It is one of the three prestigious cultural identities of Mithila, alongside Pan and Machh (fish). Makhana holds particular significance in the Kojagara festival of Maithil Brahmins, celebrated for newly married couples. Rich in protein and fiber, makhana also contains essential micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus. Being low in calories and high in fiber, makhana supports weight management, aids digestion, and keeps you full for longer.

This variety of rice is native to West Champaran district of Bihar and it gained GI tag in 2023. It gets its name from the grain size and shape, which resemble black pepper. It is for its distinctive aroma, palatability, and exceptional qualities for making aromatic chura (rice flakes).

This fruit is native to Bihar and it won GI tag in 2018. This fruit is predominantly cultivated in Muzaffarpur and the neighboring districts of East Champaran, Vaishali, Samastipur, and Begusarai. It is known for its unique fragrance, exceptionally juicy pulp, and smaller seeds.

Also known as betel leaf, this one was awarded GI tag in 2018, and is native to Magadh region spanning the districts of Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada, and Nalanda.Magahi paan is celebrated for its shiny dark green appearance, unique taste, and excellent quality.

This is a famous fragrant rice, which is also called scented rice of Bihar. The name katarni is derived from the word katami, which means an awl—a pointed tool used for making holes in wood or leather.. The rice gets its name due to the shape of the apex of the paddy, which resembles the tip of an awl. It got the GI tag in 2018 and is renowned for its aromatic flavor, palatability, and excellent Chura (beaten rice) making qualities.

Also known as Bhagalpuri Zardalu Mango, this one is native to Bhagalpur and is known for its creamy yellow hue, exceptional quality, and captivating aroma. This unique mango variety is believed to have been first cultivated in the region by Maharaja Rahmat Ali Khan Bahadur of Khadagpur. With a distinct aroma that lingers and a balance of sweetness and tang, it stands out among Indian mangoes, making it highly sought after in local markets and festivals. Renowned for its rich sweetness, smooth pulp, and juicy texture, it is highly prized for eating fresh, making traditional desserts, or preparing regional preserves and pickles. It got the GI tag in 2018, highlighting its cultural and agricultural significance.

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