‘Drink lassi, sattu and aam panna’: PM Modi shares tips to stay cool during summer in Mann Ki Baat
'Drink lassi, sattu and aam panna': PM Modi shares tips to stay cool during summer in Mann Ki Baat
In his latest Mann Ki Baat address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged people to stay hydrated during the heatwave and highlighted traditional Indian drinks that have helped generations cope with rising temperatures.
As large parts of the country continue to experience intense heatwave conditions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday advised citizens to take precautions and embrace traditional Indian summer drinks that have long been part of local food cultures.
Speaking during the 134th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Modi said people should stay hydrated and follow government guidelines to protect themselves from the extreme heat. He noted that as temperatures rise, food habits naturally change across the country, giving way to seasonal drinks and cooling preparations rooted in local traditions.
Highlighting a range of regional beverages, the Prime Minister spoke about aam panna, lassi, buttermilk, sattu sherbet, kokum sherbet and sol kadhi. He said these drinks are not products of branding or marketing but carry the wisdom and experience of generations.
“You are also familiar with these desi drinks. If you go to North India, you will find aam panna in many places, the taste of raw mango and relief from the heat. If you go to Punjab or Haryana, you’ll find lassi in large glasses. Buttermilk in Rajasthan and Gujarat is like a companion to every meal,” Modi said.
He also praised sattu sherbet, popular in Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh, saying it not only satisfies hunger but also provides energy. Referring to western and southern India, he mentioned kokum sherbet and sol kadhi from the Konkan region and Goa, along with panakam, neer mor and sambaram from South India. Odisha’s bael pana also received a mention as part of India’s rich culinary heritage.
The Prime Minister reminded listeners that most of these beverages come directly from Indian kitchens, farms and fields. “There’s no big branding, but they embody the experience of generations. You too enjoy these desi drinks during the summer,” he said.
Modi also spoke about India’s diverse mango varieties, noting how every region has its own distinctive flavour and identity. He highlighted varieties such as Langra, Zardalu, Chausa, Malda, Banganapalli, Totapuri, Neelam, Malgova, Himsagar and Suvarnarekha, saying the fruit changes in appearance, colour and taste from one region to another.
Apart from discussing summer traditions, the Prime Minister congratulated athletes who set national records during the National Senior Athletics Federation competition in Ranchi. He also referred to the return of 24 Chola-era copper plates from the Netherlands and praised a 13-hour rescue operation in Uttar Pradesh that saved a Gangetic dolphin trapped in a canal.
His remarks on heatwave preparedness came days after a Union Cabinet meeting where measures to address rising temperatures across the country were reviewed.
Disclaimer: Traditional summer drinks may help maintain hydration and provide relief from heat, but individuals with specific health conditions should consult a healthcare professional regarding dietary choices.
