This time let’s talk about having something mouth-watering and refreshing post your lunch or dinner. Could you think about any stuff other than a “Paan– the betel leaves”? Sorry, we couldn’t !! This blog will tell you all about the paan and its inside story, history, benefits and harms, not only in India but across the world which may be an eye-opener for you when you stop before a local paan-shop (Paan-wala) next time.
“Paan” (originated from Sanskrit word “parṇa” which means “leaf”) also called as the betel leaves have history as old as may be the Indian civilisation which is one of the oldest civilisations in the world. These betel leaves have been able to maintain their magical affairs and every era and generation had been under its well control.
Paan – An inseparable part of Indian Culture
Chewing Betel Leaf is a tradition & a symbol of Indian hospitality which dates back even prior to 5000 years and has not only ruled in Indian society but also travelled to the Pacific countries. As per Hindu Mythology, the second chapter of Ramayana i.e. the Ayodhya Kand has also discussed about Lord Ram spending his leisure time chewing betel leaves. This itself signifies the time period since when these leaves have shown their aroma. Offering the paan to self or the guest after the delicious lunch or dinner is part of Indian hospitality and has always said “paan is the real shaan”.
The real origin and transmission of paan remains a mystery and every debate towards the same remained unresolved. This doesn’t only carries history in India but also in many other Asian countries and elsewhere in the world including Mayanmar, Combodia, The Solomon Islands, Thailand, The Philippines, Laos and Vietnam.
Be it a shaadi (marriage) ceremony, a worship occasion, or any other small or big get together, paan is looked like an inseparable part of Indian menu. In north India, there is a tradition to chew paan after Deewali puja for blessings.
It is a tradition in South Indian culture especially in the region called as ‘Old Mysore’ to give two betel leaves, areca nuts i.e. Supari (pieces or whole) and Coconut to the guests (both male and female) at any auspicious occasion. Even on a normal day, two betel leaves, areca nut and coconut or some fruits along with a string of threaded flowers are given to a married woman, who visits her mom’s house, as a tradition at the time of her departure i.e. “Vidaai”.
Keep reading Mast Banarasi Paan’s blog to get information about paan and its varieties…
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