Bihar India - Culture, Food, Travel

Bihar, located in the eastern part of India, is a state with a rich cultural heritage and diverse natural beauty. It is known for its history, art, music, dance, literature, and unique cuisine. Let's dive into the details of what makes Bihar a must-visit destination.

History and Culture : 

Bihar has a long history that dates back to the ancient times of Magadha, a kingdom that flourished in the region. The state is home to many historic landmarks, including the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is believed to be the place where Buddha attained enlightenment. Other notable landmarks include the ruins of the ancient city of Nalanda, the Rajgir hills, and the Barabar Caves.

The state has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, music, dance, and literature. Bihar was also a center of learning in ancient India, and Nalanda University, one of the oldest universities in the world, was located here. Bihari folk songs, such as Chhath geet and Sohar, are popular throughout the country and are known for their soulful tunes.

Natural Beauty :

Bihar is home to a diverse range of natural beauty, including the lush green forests of Valmiki National Park and Tiger Reserve, the scenic waterfalls of the Kaimur Range, and the beautiful lakes of Rajgir. The state is also home to the Ganges River, which is considered one of the most sacred rivers in India and is a popular destination for pilgrims. The state has a varied landscape that includes fertile plains, rolling hills, and dense forests.

Cuisine :

Bihar has a unique cuisine that reflects its rich cultural heritage. Some of the most popular dishes in the state include litti-chokha, a baked wheat flour dumpling stuffed with roasted gram flour and served with mashed potatoes and aubergine, and sattu paratha, a flatbread made from roasted gram flour. Other delicacies include fish curry, chana ghugni, and tilkut.

Bihari cuisine is known for its simplicity, yet it is flavorful and delicious. The state has a unique blend of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that are sure to delight any food lover. In this blog, we will explore some of the famous foods of Bihar.

Litti Chokha is a famous and traditional Bihari dish that is loved by locals and visitors alike. It is made from baked dough balls made of wheat flour and stuffed with roasted gram flour, sattu, and other spices. It is then served with mashed potatoes, brinjal (aubergine), and tomato chokha. It is a staple food in Bihar, especially during the winter season.

Sattu Paratha :

Sattu Paratha is another popular Bihari dish made from roasted gram flour. The roasted gram flour is mixed with finely chopped onions, coriander leaves, green chili, and spices. The mixture is then stuffed inside a wheat flour dough ball and rolled out into a flatbread. It is then roasted on a tawa (griddle) with some oil or ghee until it turns golden brown. It is served hot with curd, pickle, or chutney.

Dal Pitha:

 Dal Pitha is a steamed rice flour dumpling filled with a spiced lentil mixture. It is a popular breakfast and snack item in Bihar. The lentil mixture is made with yellow moong dal or chana dal, onions, green chilies, and spices. The dumplings are steamed and served hot with tomato chutney or any other chutney of your choice.

Chana Ghugni:

 Chana Ghugni is a popular snack made from boiled chickpeas (chana) cooked in a spicy tomato-based gravy. It is served with a slice of lemon and finely chopped onions. It is a perfect evening snack that is both healthy and delicious.

Fish Curry :

Bihar is also famous for its fish curry, especially in the regions close to the Ganges River. The curry is made from a variety of fishes, including Rohu, Catla, and Hilsa, and cooked in a spicy tomato-based gravy. It is best served with steamed rice or chapati.

People and Festivals:

 Biharis are known for their warmth and hospitality. They celebrate festivals with great zeal and enthusiasm. The most popular festivals in Bihar include Chhath Puja, a four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God, and Sonepur Mela, the largest cattle fair in Asia. Other festivals celebrated with great enthusiasm include Diwali, Holi, Eid, and Christmas.

Conclusion :

 Bihar is a state with a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It offers a unique experience for travelers who are interested in exploring the history and culture of India. The state has a lot to offer in terms of food, culture, and natural beauty, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the true essence of India.