Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a city that holds immense religious significance for Hindus. Varanasi is famous for its spiritual ambiance, ancient temples, and vibrant Ghats, where devotees perform sacred rituals and take holy dips in the river. Among the many unique experiences Varanasi offers, one cannot miss indulging in the famous Banarasi Paan. Paan is the Hindi word for areca nut and pickling lime wrapped in betel leaves. It is a traditional delicacy that locals and tourists alike enjoy after meals as a refreshing palate cleanser. The art of making Banarasi Paan has been passed down through generations, and the city boasts numerous paan shops that have been serving this delectable treat for centuries.
Banarasi Paan: The mixture of Tradition and Flavor
The enchanting city of Varanasi in India is widely known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and spiritual significance. However, among its many unique offerings, one thing that stands out is Banarasi Paan. Paan, in general, refers to a betel leaf rolled with a combination of various fillings, most commonly areca nuts, tobacco, and a range of sweet ingredients. Banarasi paan, known for its distinctive taste and captivating flavors, is an integral part of the city’s culinary traditions and an essential experience for visitors and locals alike. In Banaras, it is an established tradition that paan is served and made on every street corner. No matter where you go in Varanasi, you can always find Paan.
The Historical Significance of Banarasi Paan
Banarasi paan has a deep-rooted connection with the city’s history and cultural significance. It has been an integral part of Indian tradition for centuries. Banarasi paan, in particular, has flourished and evolved over time, incorporating unique flavors and techniques. People believe that the original paan seed was sown on Mount Kailash by Shiva and Parvati, and that they then took the paan plant to Kashi. Here, folklore also links paan to the story of the Ramayana. It is said that when Hanuman went to visit Sita in Ashok Vatika and she didn’t have anything to show him how much she cared, she quickly picked paan leaves and made a garland out of them. Even now, paan is still given to lord Hanuman, especially in the city of Varanasi.
The Art of Making Banarasi Paan
Preparing Banarasi paan is an art in itself. Skilled people called “Paanwalas” or “Panwaris” make each paan with care and precision, so that each mouthful is a blend of flavors. Their expertise lies not just in the choice of ingredients, but also in the way they assemble and garnish the paan. The main part of Banarasi Paan is ‘Paan Patta’ betel leaf, which is used to make the paan. The process begins with selecting the freshest betel leaves. This leaf with all the other items is then folded into a pocket, which is called Paan. Here are some well-known ingredients: paan-supari, gulkand, saunf, chuna, katha, chuara, coconut, tuttifrutti or sugar, elaichi, and jaiphal powder. The Banarasi paan is unique because of how it tastes and how it is prepared and served. It can cost anywhere from INR 5 to INR 1000, depending on what goes into it and how it’s made.
The Experience and Popularity of Banarasi Paan
One of the most unique aspects of Banarasi paan is the multitude of flavors it offers. From the Sada”Meethapaan” to classic “Zardapaan”, there is something to suit everyone’s taste buds. They are an important part of many social and religious events, like weddings. In many places, especially Varanasi, a sweet betel leaf box filled with different spices is given to the guests as a welcome.
Banarasi paan is more than simply a tasty treat; it’s an opportunity to learn about and participate in the rich cultural traditions of the city. Paan shops in Varanasi are often filled with vibrant colors, enchanting aromas, and a bustling ambience. Moreover, enjoying a paan is also seen as a social activity, where friends and families gather, share stories, and savor the flavors together. Due to its popularity, Banarasi paan has spread across borders and can now be found in many places around the world, where it serves as a reminder of the cultural heritage it represents.
Banarasi Paan: The GI Tag Holder
Banarasi paan holds a special place in the hearts of people who have witnessed its magical flavors and experienced the art of its creation. Banarasi Paan received GI tag On April 3, 2023.The GI Tag, also called the Geographical Indication Certification, is a type of intellectual property right that is given to a product that comes from a certain area and has unique qualities or an image that is closely tied to that area. Banarasi Paan has been one of the best things about Varanasi. This paan has been featured in a number of travel magazines and films. The people who live in the city love it, and tourists want to try it. The GI Tag was finally given to Banarasi Paan because people love it so much.
