Table of Contents
- Cultural Difference In The Origin Of Basmati Rice:
- Basmati Rice & Its Production:
- Exports Of The Basmati Rice:
- Symbolic Value Of Basmati Rice:
- Battles Over The Grain:
- Concluding Thoughts:
There are many ongoing debates on the origin of basmati rice, specifically with Pakistan. It has been a subject of various controversies. In this article, we are going to define if there is any cultural difference in the origin of basmati rice.
Indian basmati rice is also known as the king of rice variety among others. It holds a very special recognition all over the world. It is also famous as “Queen of Fragrance”.
In the context of its origin, it is rooted mainly in three countries, such as; Nepal, India & Pakistan. According to the year 2019, the International Trade market holds 65 percent shares of rice grains from India. And remaining 35 percent by Pakistan.
Cultural Difference In The Origin Of Basmati Rice:
Basmati rice is a long grain, slender in shape and has a soft texture. Historically, there are proofs of its origin on Indian land. The very first, it originated in the Indus valley in the foothills of Himalayas.
This part of the region also connected to Pakistani Punjab. In Urdu, Punjab means “punj” (five). So, it is situated around the five rivers that are connected to the Himalayas. The five rivers are; Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi and Sutlej. All from north west to south east.
To put in simple words, the origin of basmati rice had happened in the Hindustan land. However, culturally the taste, aroma, texture and ways of cultivation of rice differ.
The genuine area of origin of basmati rice, is pure because of the atmosphere that contains;
- Good water quality and all time availability in a fine amount.
- Proper amount of sun exposure that enhances the grain quality.
- Low altitude land, that riches the soil of the land.
Basmati Rice & Its Production:
Basmati rice is known as the supreme choice of many. It is the foremost option in any occasion and also it compliments the daily consumption. One thing which is worth noticing about it, is that basmati rice is easy to grow anywhere.
However, the essence and taste is not possible to get. Because, some specific features are linked to specific places production. The major thing to note is, the seed of rice is the same but the location impacts its cultivation largely.
Before Partition between India and Pakistan, all areas under Haryana and ancient Punjab, known as old Punjab earlier. This was famous as the “basmati belt”. It also includes Dehradun which is now a part of Uttarakhand.
The climatic conditions affect rice production to a great extent. And, this is the primary factor in its production.
Exports Of The Basmati Rice:
The rice exporters of India, play an integral role in the exports of rice to many countries. Both categories of rice; Basmati and Non-basmati, exports largely to almost every corner of the world.
In the latest year, it has recorded around 17.7 million tons exportings. Throughout the time period, the buyers of the grain are increasing. It is happening only because of the popularity of the grain and versatility of it.
Every year, the grain export records are increasing, even so during the pandemic, the records are enhancing. However, it happened because many countries began to store the grain. Everyone is panicked in the covid-19 first wave situation.
It has abilities which compliments every dish. Also, it can be cooked in multiple varieties that are hard to count even. All give a pleasant taste and instantly satisfies the soul.
Symbolic Value Of Basmati Rice:
The word basmati has derived from the sanskrit, which means “Fragrant”. In a more clearer way, the word basmati is made of two words, first is vas – Aroma and, second is mayup – Deep rooted. Later, mayup changed to Mati, which soon made the word “Basmati”.
Therefore, the basic meaning of the word itself is aromatic. Then, just think about the aroma of grain. In one of the books by Waris Shah, titled as “The adventures of Hir and Ranjha” (1767). This book has a mention of basmati in its chapter 16, the second paragraph.
Through this book, it has become the written proof that basmati rice originated on Indian land. The consumption of rice on a daily basis never decreases its popularity on special occasions. It is highly recommendable on weddings, occasions, festivals etc.
Indian basmati rice has its distinct position around the world.
Battles Over The Grain:
As the partition happened during the independence of India, one country is divided into two; India and Pakistan. From then, various things changed and both countries battled over many things.
Basmati rice is also one of the reasons. The state where it originated has divided so now who has the label of its origin? This thing has always been the center of controversies between the two.
India has filed the application in the EU for the patent over it. This decision led to more battles then finally in the year 2008, both agreed to file a joint application. But due to some issues, the decision is pending.
Presently, both countries produce almost similar varieties but in different amounts. Some of the varieties are listed below:
India produced varieties;
- Pusa1121
- Mahi Sugandha
- Ranbir Basmati
- Taraori Basmati
- Basmati 1509, etc
Pakistan produced varieties;
- 370 Basmati
- Basmati 2000
- Pak or Kernal basmati
- Shaheen Basmati
- Basmati 385
These are the different kinds of varieties grown in countries. If we look at the contribution, India holds more percent than Pakistan. And, in terms of exports India exports at large.
Concluding Thoughts:
In regards to cultural differences, it is clear that the origin of grain is found in India only. Though, it is being widely produced in many countries. But, India will remain the father of Basmati rice.
The major countries that develop the crop are mainly; India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh. However, India is the foremost producer of the rice and the leading exporter of it. It is known to be the healthiest grain amongst all.