Monsoon memories in India

Monsoon in India evokes a flood of memories, each drop carrying nostalgia from our childhood. Here are some cherished moments that every Indian can relate to:

Petrichor: The earthy smell of rain signalled relief after scorching summers. It was like nature’s perfume announcing the arrival of joyous monsoon days.

School Uniforms: Moms ensured our uniforms were rain-ready. We’d march off to school with colorful umbrellas and cute raincoats, ready to face the downpour.

Puddle Play: Jumping into puddles was the highlight of our day. Dirty uniforms? Worth it! The sheer joy of splashing around was unmatched.

Terrace Rainbows: After the rain, we’d rush to the terrace, eyes wide, watching vibrant rainbows adorn the sky. Those moments felt magical.

Paper Boats: Crafting paper boats and setting them afloat in rainwater-filled gutters was a delightful tradition. Our little vessels sailed through mini rivers.

Frogs and Snails: Spotting tiny frogs and snails inside our homes was both exciting and slightly scary. They added to the monsoon charm.

Taste Buds and Chai: Mom ensured our taste buds enjoyed the rains too. Hot chai and pakoras became our monsoon companions.

Fear and Excitement: Entering our homes after getting drenched carried a mix of fear (of mom’s scolding) and excitement (of being part of the rain dance).

No School!: Rain meant no school, and that was reason enough to celebrate. We’d spend hours playing, laughing, and feeling the raindrops on our skin.

Monsoon Magic: Despite the chaos, monsoons still hold a special place in our hearts. If only they remained as enchanting as they were during our childhood

What are some monsoon delicacies in India?

Monsoons in India bring a delightful array of seasonal delicacies. Here are some mouthwatering treats from different regions:

Arbi (Colocasia) Leaves: These leaves, abundant during monsoons, are used to make curries, stir-fries, and snacks. In Gujarat and Karnataka, they’re transformed into “patra” or “pathrode,” stuffed with rice flour, spices, tamarind, and jaggery. Uttar Pradesh enjoys “patode,” where the leaves are used for pakoras. In Orissa, they wrap and cook rice for an aromatic dish.

Rugda Mushrooms (Jharkhand): Rugda mushrooms grow naturally in Jharkhand’s forests. With a meat-like flavor and a crunchy shell, they’re perfect for curries. These mushrooms are a great vegan alternative with high nutritional value.

Bamboo Shoots (Northeast India): Abundant during monsoons, bamboo shoots are used in pickles, condiments, soups, side dishes, and stir-fries. Sweet-tasting shoots are eaten fresh, while bitter ones are fermented or dried.

Khichuri (Bengal): A unanimous monsoon favorite, khichuri is a comforting dish made with rice, lentils, and spices. It warms the soul during rainy days.

Remember, each region has its own monsoon delights, and exploring them is like embarking on a flavourful journey across India.

What are some monsoon sweets?

Monsoons in India bring a delightful array of seasonal sweets, known as “Monsoon Mithai.” These treats evoke nostalgia and comfort during rainy days. Here are some beloved options:

Jalebi: Iconic and crispy, Jalebi is made by deep-frying a fermented batter and soaking it in sugar syrup. Enjoy it piping hot with tea or milk.

Ghevar: Hailing from Rajasthan, Ghevar is a honeycomb-like sweet made with flour and ghee, soaked in sugar syrup and garnished with nuts. It pairs well with creamy rabri.

Rasgulla: Originating from the eastern part of India, Rasgulla features soft, spongy chenna (cottage cheese) balls cooked in sugar syrup. Best enjoyed chilled.

Gulab Jamun: These golden-brown dumplings are made by deep-frying a mixture of khoya (reduced milk) and flour, then soaking them in sugar syrup. A perfect blend of sweetness and richness.

Malpua: A traditional sweet pancake made with flour, semolina, and mashed ripe bananas or coconut. Deep-fried until crispy and soaked in sugar syrup, it offers heavenly textures and flavors.

Embrace the magic of Monsoon Mithai and savor these delightful Indian sweets during the rainy season.