From Mayurbhanj to Bhubaneswar, ‘Taste of Similipal’ brings traditional Odisha cuisine to Toshali Mela

At the ongoing Toshali Mela in Bhubaneswar's Janta Maidan, an air of nostalgia and tradition fills the atmosphere, as ‘Taste of Similipal’ - a unique stall offering a rare and authentic taste of Odisha's culinary heritage greets visitors. 

With the vibrant crowds flocking to the event, one particular stall has caught the attention of food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike- a humble but heartwarming tribute to Mayurbhanj's rich, age-old food traditions.

Located in the heart of the Mela, this stall stands as a living testament to the time-honoured dishes that have been passed down through generations in the rural heartlands of Odisha. Among the offerings is a dish that has gained immense popularity — Similipal rice, served with a flavourful Barehipani.

‘Taste of Similipal’: A Rice with Secret Blend Of Spices

The Similipal rice from Mayurbhanj is a perfect example of Odisha's indigenous food culture. This country rice is cooked with a variety of native ingredients, giving it a unique aroma and taste that takes one back to simpler, slower times. 

What truly sets this rice apart is the secret blend of spices and herbs that harmonize perfectly to create a flavour profile which many say is unmatched.

‘Taste of Similipal’ and Its Barehipani

The stall's signature dish, Barehipani, is a watery, refreshing beverage made from freshly harvested country rice mixed with spring water, known for its cooling properties. 

Often served during summer months to keep the body hydrated, this traditional drink is cherished not just for its taste, but also its health benefits. At Bhubaneswar Toshali Mela, it is a hit among those craving a cool respite from the bustling crowd and the afternoon heat.

"I had heard about Similipal’s traditional food from my grandparents, but this is the first time I actually tasted it. The Barehipani was so refreshing and different from anything we usually drink. It feels healthy and authentic," said a college student from Bhubaneswar.

The Barehipani stands as a symbol of Odisha's indigenous knowledge of natural health practices.

While these dishes are beloved in rural Odisha, their presence at the Toshali Mela is more than just a culinary indulgence. It's a poignant reminder of the fading food culture of the region. 

Mahul Pitha by ‘Taste of Similipal’

One of the standout offerings at the stall is Mahula Pitha, a traditional cake made from mahula (mahua) flowers, which were once a staple during the harvest season. 

With its delightful aroma and sweet taste, this dish is a nostalgic journey for anyone familiar with Odisha's rural kitchens. 

For many in the crowd, the sight of Mahula Pitha brings back memories of the kitchens during harvest time, and the sweet, earthy taste of the dish provides a sense of connection to the past.

Another visitor, who travelled from Balasore to visit the Mela, shared: "The Mahula Pitha reminded me of my childhood. During Raja festival, my grandmother used to prepare something similar. One bite and I felt like I was back in my village."

Reviving Ancient Flavours Through ‘Jalaghantei’

Another rare dish on display is Jalaghantei (snail), an ancient medicinal food that was once consumed for its therapeutic properties. 

Known for its unique taste, this dish has largely disappeared from modern Odisha households but is being revived at the stall as part of an effort to preserve the state's vanishing food traditions. 

Made from a special combination of ingredients, Jalaghantei is believed to have healing properties, with many locals recalling how it was an essential part of the diet during traditional festivals and health regimens.

"I was curious about Jalaghantei, after my friends told me about it because I had never tried it before. It’s surprising that such traditional dishes are slowly disappearing. Stalls like ‘Taste of Similipal’ are doing something really important to preserve these things," said a working professional.

The Traditional ‘Chicken & Puffed Rice’ Combination

As the sun sets and the evening cools down, the stall becomes busier, and the smell of freshly prepared Mansha Mudi (chicken and puffed rice) fills the air. 

This hearty dish of tender chicken, cooked to perfection, along with Mansha Pitha- a type of meat dumpling that is another crowd favourite. It's a reminder of how food was not only sustenance but also a celebration of culture and community.

A homemaker from the capital city said, “Nowadays we only eat fast food or restaurant-style dishes. But here, the taste is simple, earthy and full of tradition. The Mansha Mudi was absolutely delicious. It’s not just food, it's emotion."

‘Taste of Similipal’ Takes Visitors Back in Time

For many visitors at Toshali Mela, this stall is not just about eating food but experiencing Odisha's rich culture through the taste of Mayurbhanj. 

As people take a bite of the traditional dishes and sip on Barehipani, they are not only reconnecting with the past but are also supporting a movement that seeks to preserve the culinary heritage of the state. 

An elderly visitor from Mayurbhanj, with a smile, said, "This is our real food. Our roots. I’m happy people in Bhubaneswar are appreciating the taste of our soil."

Speaking to OTV, the owner of ‘Taste of Similipal’, Debashree expressed immense happiness at the response the stall has received. "I am truly happy that through this stall, I am able to introduce people here to the rich and authentic taste of my home district, Mayurbhanj. Many of these dishes are slowly disappearing from our kitchens. If even a few people rediscover and appreciate them, I feel my effort is successful," she said.

Debashree further shared that all the food items are prepared using traditional methods and indigenous spices to preserve the original flavour. "We are not using any artificial flavours. The spices, herbs and ingredients are all traditional- the same ones our mothers and grandmothers used. That is what gives the food its real, earthy taste," she explained.

Thanking those who stood by him, she added, "This would not have been possible without the support of my husband, family members, friends and everyone who encouraged and helped me set up this stall. I am grateful that people are enjoying our food and appreciating our culture."

This ‘Taste of Similipal’ - Stall No. 32 at Toshali Mela - is not only helping people experience the soul of Odisha in every bite but also, with its dedication to reviving forgotten dishes, playing a crucial role in ensuring that these culinary treasures continue to be cherished by future generations.