Kalanamak Rice in india - buddha Rice in india

Kalanamak is a type of aromatic rice grown in Nepal and India. The name literally means black husk, a reference to its black husk (“kala” meaning black, “namak” meaning salt). This aromatic rice has been grown since the Buddhist period that is 600 BC. Its popularity is high in Himalayan Tarai region of Nepal, especially Kapilvastu, and eastern Uttar Pradesh in India. It is often called the “scented black pearl.” The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has highlighted it in the book Specialty Rices of the World.

Historical Significance
Kalanamak rice has a history dating back to the Buddhist period. Grains similar to Kalanamak were found when Kapilvastu, the ancient kingdom of King Śuddhodana, father of Gautama Buddha, was excavated. It is said that Buddha distributed Kalanamak rice as prasad during his visit to Kapilvastu after attaining enlightenment. He told the villagers to sow it in marshy areas, saying that its unique smell would remind them of him.

During British rule, efforts for preserving Kalanamak rice were initiated by the Englishmen such as William Pepe and Edcan Walker. Reservoirs in Bajha, Marthi, Moti, and Majhauli were developed for the production of this rice. Kalanamak was sent to England. The post-independence negligence had affected the productivity level.