PM Modi Lists 10 Traditional Drinks To Help Indians Stay Hydrated In Heatwave

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted a wide range of traditional Indian summer beverages, encouraging citizens to rely on indigenous drinks to stay hydrated and manage the intense heatwave conditions affecting large parts of the country. Speaking during the 134th episode of his Mann Ki Baat address, he described these drinks as deeply rooted in India’s food traditions and rural knowledge systems. He also stressed that such preparations reflect centuries of practical wisdom for surviving extreme summer temperatures. According to him, these drinks are both culturally significant and health-supportive.

The Prime Minister explained that rising temperatures naturally influence food habits in Indian households, especially during peak summer months. He noted that people traditionally shift towards cooling foods such as curd-based dishes and raw mango preparations when heat levels increase. He also mentioned practices like storing water in earthen pots, which naturally keeps water cooler and more refreshing. These habits, he said, represent time-tested methods that continue to remain relevant even today.

Modi further emphasized that these traditional drinks are not just seasonal refreshments but an integral part of India’s regional identities and culinary heritage. He said most of these beverages are prepared using simple ingredients sourced from local farms and home kitchens, without dependence on commercial processing. Despite lacking modern branding, they offer natural cooling, hydration, and nutritional benefits. He urged citizens to value and preserve these indigenous practices as part of India’s living traditions.

Also Read: Doctor Explains How Much Water You Should Drink During Heatwave Conditions

Among the drinks highlighted were aam panna, lassi, chaas, sattu drink, kokum sharbat, sol kadhi, panakam, neer mor, sambaram, and bel panna. Aam panna is made from raw mango pulp and spices, helping prevent dehydration and sunstroke. Lassi and chaas are curd-based drinks rich in probiotics that aid digestion and cooling. Sattu provides protein and energy, while kokum sharbat and sol kadhi offer strong cooling effects, especially in coastal regions.

He also referred to panakam, neer mor, sambaram, and bel panna as effective regional beverages for summer wellness. Panakam, made with jaggery and spices, helps restore energy and hydration. Neer mor and sambaram, both spiced buttermilk variants, are widely consumed in southern India for digestion and cooling. Bel panna, made from wood apple, is known for its natural heat-reducing properties and ability to prevent dehydration. Together, these drinks represent India’s diverse regional responses to extreme weather.

The remarks come amid an ongoing heatwave across several states, where high temperatures have raised concerns over dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Health experts often recommend increased fluid intake and electrolyte balance during such conditions, which aligns with the benefits of these traditional drinks. The Prime Minister’s message also reinforces the broader public health advice of avoiding peak sun exposure and maintaining hydration through natural and locally available beverages.

Also Read: Doctors Recommend Low-Intensity Cardio Exercises During Heatwave Conditions