Mar 01, 2025

Exploring the origins and cultural significance of Kadhi

Siddhartha Jana

Ancient origins of Kadhi

It is thought that Kadhi originated in Rajasthan, where water shortage led to the widespread use of buttermilk.

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Ayurvedic influence

Ayurveda emphasises the cooling qualities of yoghurt, which help with digestion and balance body heat in kadhi.

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Conventional thickening agents

Unlike gramme flour (besan), which is frequently used nowadays, early forms of kadhi would have used maize flour (makki ka atta).

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Core ingredients remain consistent

Yoghurt, gramme flour, and a mixture of flavourful spices are the three essential ingredients of kadhi, regardless of regional variances.

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Punjabi Kadhi

Rich, creamy, and frequently accompanied by deep-fried besan dumplings (pakoras) and a flavourful blend of spices and ghee.

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Gujarati Kadhi

Made with sugar or jaggery, ginger, green chillies, and occasionally peanuts, this dish is pleasantly sweet and lighter.

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Regional variations

Other varieties include Maharashtrian Sol Kadhi (coconut milk with kokum), Sindhi (tamarind-based), and Rajasthani (spicy and thin).

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Cultural & festive significance

In some places, kadhi is consumed as part of religious or wedding feasts, on days when people fast, and as a post-festival detox meal.

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A Sign of cosiness & tradition

In Indian cooking, kadhi is more than just a dish; it's a symbol of cosiness, nostalgia, and generational shared memories.

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