Mahua Spirit Sees Revival in India

Quick Summary

• Spring has arrived in Madhya Pradesh’s Kanha National Park, known for tiger reserves and the growth of the mahua tree (Madhuca longifolia).
• Mahua tree flowers are dried and fermented to produce a spirit consumed by Indigenous communities for centuries. This ancient liquor holds cultural significance, being used in rituals like blessing tombstones or washing umbilical cords of newborns.
• Colonial rule in 19th-century India banned mahua distillation, deeming it harmful and disrupting Indigenous livelihoods dependent on this tradition.
• Mahua is experiencing a revival thanks to new government laws recognizing it as heritage liquor. Brands such as Mond and Mohulo are bringing mahua spirits to markets, offering financial empowerment to Indigenous producers like Anarkali bai-a woman who credits mahua for her independence.
• Fine dining establishments such as Masque (Mumbai) integrate mahua-infused dishes into menus,while resorts at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve serve welcome drinks made with the spirit. Luxury brands like Six Brothers Small Batch offer double-distilled variants internationally,reshaping perceptions around what was once considered “country liquor.”
• As biases persist against traditional Indian liquors post-colonization, initiatives aim at repositioning mahua globally with products sold at premium rates in cities from Paris to bordeaux.

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