Bhubaneswar, 31 May (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted Odisha’s traditional summer beverage Bael Pana and the renowned Suvarnarekha mango during his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, underscoring India’s rich culinary heritage and agricultural diversity.

Addressing the nation amid rising summer temperatures, the Prime Minister urged citizens to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and follow health advisories issued by authorities to safeguard themselves against heat-related illnesses.

Emphasizing traditional and sustainable ways to beat the heat, PM Modi referred to a variety of indigenous summer drinks prepared across different regions of the country. Mentioning Odisha’s Bael Pana as a popular and refreshing seasonal drink, he noted that similar beverages are deeply embedded in local traditions across India. These include Aam Panna in northern India, lassi in Punjab and Haryana, buttermilk in Rajasthan and Gujarat, Sattu Sherbet in Bihar and Jharkhand, and Panakam, Neer Mor, and Sambaram in southern states.

“These traditional drinks reflect the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ and are prepared using ingredients readily available in our homes and farms,” the Prime Minister said, highlighting their nutritional value, cultural significance, and environmental sustainability.

The Prime Minister also spoke about mangoes, often regarded as the king of fruits, and lauded farmers for their contribution to India's agricultural prosperity. Referring to Odisha’s Suvarnarekha mango, he highlighted several celebrated varieties from across the country, including Alphonso and Hapus from Maharashtra, Kesar from Gujarat, Dussehri from Uttar Pradesh, Langra from Kashi, Zardalu from Bihar, and Himsagar from West Bengal.

PM Modi noted with pride that many of these regional fruit varieties are now reaching international markets directly from rural India, creating new opportunities for farmers and strengthening the country’s agricultural economy.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda