Pani Puri Day

 

Fluffy, crispy, and filled to the brim with mouthwatering stuffing and sweet ‘n’ spicy water, pani puri (also known as golgappa and phuchka) is arguably the most popular street food in South Asia. In fact, Pani Puri has its own Day and it happens to be on July 12.

But why celebrate this scrumptious treat?

Well, it all began in the city of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, back in 2015. A restaurant called Indori Zayka set out on a flavourful mission aimed to achieve a World Record by offering 51 flavours of pani puri. That's right, 51! And they actually achieved it.

You could be wondering, how come the humble fluffy puri and even humbler pani joined hands to be South Asia's favourite snack?

The enigmatic snack perhaps holds more origin stories than fillings in its puri shells. It's like a chaotic party where everyone's got a different tale to tell, but no one can agree on the main course.

-    According to ancient legend, pani puri emerged during the time of the Mahabharat, when Draupadi faced her ultimate culinary challenge. With limited ingredients and a dash of creativity, she whipped up golgappa.

-   Impressed by the taste, her mother-in-law Kunti bestowed the snack with the gift of immortality.

-   And so, pani puri became a divine treat cherished by generations, as immortal as the laughter it brings.

-    On the other hand, some voices claim that pani puri has Mughal roots. Apparently, it sneaked its way into the royal kitchens during their rule in India.

-    The Mughals, unable to resist the burst of flavours, shared it with the masses. 

-    But let's not get too caught up in ancient tales and royal affairs. Renowned culinary anthropologist Kurush Dalal has his own spicy theory. He believes that a smaller Raj Kachori, stuffed with potatoes and saucy goodness, might just be the parent of our beloved pani puri.