PM Narendra Modi promotes Kalaburagi Roti in Mann ki Baat; here's why

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always been vocal about the local produces and small entities working towards making desi food accessible to a larger audience. One such appreciation came from the Prime Minister Modi in the 123rd episode of Mann ki Baat, where he talked about a rare and unique roti, which is not just providing employment to women, but is also reaching a larger audience who need nutritious Indian food. Scroll down to rad the details.

According to the PIB press release he said, "The achievement of the women of Kalaburgi in Karnataka is also excellent. They have made jowar roti a brand. In the cooperative that they have formed, more than three thousand rotis are being made every day. The aroma of these rotis is no longer limited to the village. A special counter has been opened in Bengaluru. Orders are coming over online food platforms. Kalaburgi roti is now reaching the kitchens of big cities. This has had a great impact on these women, their income is increasing."

Kalaburagi Roti refers to a traditional flatbread from the Kalaburagi (formerly Gulbarga) region of Karnataka and is typically made with using jowar (sorghum) flour, a staple grain in the semi-arid districts of North Karnataka. This roti is known for its large size, soft texture, and earthy flavor. According to experts, the dpugh for this roti is prepared with warm water and then the round roti is skillfully patted by hand and cooked on a hot griddle. These warm rotis are best served with Ennegayi, also called as stuffed brinjal curry, groundnut-based gravies or one can also enjoy them with spicy chutneys made with garlic, sesame, and peanuts.

Kalaburagi Rotti is an initiaive driven by a dedicated team committed to promoting local food and empowering women. With strong support from the District Collector and the Joint Director of Agriculture, Kalaburagi, the project is guided by coordinators who oversee production, quality, and daily operations through self-help groups. According to their official website, at the heart of this effort are women entrepreneurs who prepare nutritious jowar rotis using traditional methods. Backed by a small marketing team, their work has reached homes and markets across the region through platforms like Amazon, Zomato, and Meesho making Kalaburagi Rotti a symbol of tradition and empowerment.

The official website mentions jowar as the "King of millets" and is a highly nutritious and versatile grain and a staple of the region. It is packed with essential nutrients that offer numerous health benefits. From aiding weight management and controlling diabetes to reducing the risk of heart diseases and providing anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties, jowar is truly a superfood. It is also rich in protein, fiber, minerals, and vitamins, which makes it suitable for all age groups and a perfect choice for those seeking healthy, nutritious options.

A study titled "Sorghum and health: An overview of potential protective health effects" states that research involving the consumption of sorghum products has shown promise in improving metabolic indicators associated with chronic disease. These include blood glucose levels, oxidative stress markers, and acute satiety sensations linked to appetite regulation. There is also experimental evidence for beneficial cell‐mediated immune responses, including antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects.