Patna: Bihar’s iconic sattu and Jardalu mangoes received national attention on Sunday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the state’s traditional food products during the 134th episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat.
The Prime Minister referred to sattu as a nutritious and refreshing drink that helps people cope with extreme summer temperatures, while also mentioning the famed Jardalu mango, a fruit variety closely associated with Bihar’s agricultural heritage.
Responding to the mention, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, describing the recognition as a tribute to the state’s farmers, entrepreneurs and rich cultural traditions.
“The Prime Minister’s mention of Bihar’s unique products is a matter of pride for the people of the state. It recognises the hard work of our farmers and highlights Bihar’s rich agricultural and culinary heritage on a national platform,” Chaudhary said in a statement.
Recognition For Bihar’s Agricultural Identity
The Chief Minister said the acknowledgement would help strengthen the identity of Bihar’s local products both within India and abroad while encouraging farmers and producers associated with them.
He noted that Mann Ki Baat serves as a platform through which the Prime Minister highlights the country’s diverse traditions, innovations and local achievements.
According to Chaudhary, the inclusion of Bihar’s traditional products and cultural heritage in the programme has further reinforced the state’s contribution to India’s social and economic landscape.
The Story Of The Jardalu Mango
Among Bihar’s best-known agricultural products, the Jardalu mango is primarily cultivated in Bhagalpur and parts of the Champaran region.
Often described as the “Alphonso of North India”, the variety received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2018 in recognition of its distinctive qualities and regional identity.
The mango is known for its natural sweetness, rich aroma and smooth, fibreless pulp. Typically weighing between 186 and 265 grams, it contains a high sugar content and is considered rich in vitamins A, B and C.
Its unique flavour profile has made it one of Bihar’s most celebrated fruit varieties.
Sattu: Bihar’s Traditional Summer Superfood
Sattu, particularly chickpea-based sattu, occupies a special place in Bihar’s culinary culture and daily life.
Made from roasted gram that is ground into a fine flour, it is widely consumed across the state as a nutritious and affordable source of energy.
Nutrition experts often highlight its high content of fibre, iron, calcium and magnesium. The drink is especially popular during summer because of its cooling properties and ability to provide sustained energy.
A traditional sattu beverage is typically prepared by mixing the flour with water, lemon, black salt, roasted cumin, onions and green chillies.
Sattu is also the key ingredient in the filling of litti, one of Bihar’s most recognised traditional dishes.
Cultural Pride And Economic Opportunity
The Chief Minister said Bihar’s agricultural products, folk traditions and cultural heritage have long contributed to the state’s identity and economic strength.
He added that recognition from the Prime Minister would not only increase awareness of these products but could also provide a boost to local producers and help promote Bihar’s traditional food culture among a wider audience.
Chaudhary concluded by thanking the Prime Minister on behalf of the people of Bihar for bringing the state’s distinctive products into the national spotlight.
