What is Kalanamak Rice?
Also known as Buddha Rice, it is one of the finest and short grain rice with an unusual black husk. If we go by reports, this rice has been in cultivation since the Buddhist period and is native to Siddharthnagar district of Uttar Pradesh. It has also been featured in the book 'Speciality Rices of the World' by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (Image: istock)
History of Kalanamak Rice
A per food historians, on his way to Kapilvastu after enlightenment Lord Buddha crossed Siddharthnagar and when locals stopped him and sought his blessings, he took a handful of paddy from his begging bowl and gave it to them. "Sow it ...it has a special aroma...The fragrance will always remind people of me," he told the villagers. And today, the rice is grown in Siddharthnagar, Gonda, Sant Kabir Nagar, Maharajganj, Basti and Gorakhpur. (Image: istock)
Benefits of Kalanamak Rice
This rice is rich in micronutrients such as iron and zinc and can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. It also contains 11 percent protein which is almost double of common rice varieties. Besides, it has a low Glycemic Index (49% to 52%) making it sugar free and suitable for even diabetic people. It also contains antioxidants such as anthocynin which is useful in preventing heart disease and also helps in improving the health of the skin. It has also been found helpful in regulating blood pressure and blood-related problems. (Image: istock)
Also Read: Forbidden Black Rice and the reasons which make it so unique
PM Award for Kalanamak Rice
As per latest reports, the lesser-known rice through One District One Product Scheme has earned the Prime Minister's award for Excellence in Public Administration 2021. The TOI report says that the rice was awarded on Civil Services Day, April 21. (Image: istock)
GI tag for Kalanamak Rice
This rare rice has been awarded the Geographical Indication tag in 2013 which recognised Siddharthnagar and the adjacent districts for the tag. (Image: istock)
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