Bihar - The Locavore

Culture

What Happens When Mithilanchal’s Makhana Attracts Global Demand?

June 3, 2026
Jigyasa Mishra

When exported, makhana can cost as high as rupees 1,000 per kilogram. All photos by Jigyasa Mishra.

A highly labour-intensive agricultural crop, makhana has been witnessing rising popularity in urban India and export demand. How has this surge affected the farmers who cultivate it?

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Snacks and Appetisers

Baskarel Pakoras

September 24, 2024
Priyanka Bhadani

For Priyanka Bhadani, baskarel or bamboo shoots bring back both pleasant and not-so-pleasant memories. This recipe for baskarel pakoras is from her father, evoking the love and care that exemplifies their bond.

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Main Course

Gular ki Sabzi

May 6, 2024
Priti Saxena

In an exploration of the cluster fig,its history and its prevalence today,Priti Saxena decides that she must cook with and eat the fruit as well. She shares with us a recipe her mother used to make,a cluster fig sabzi.

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Culture

Discovering Gular, the Lesser-Known Fig, and Other Lessons About Lost Foods

May 3, 2024
Priti Saxena

The gular fruit does not exist. Or at least, that’s what the stories say. Historian Priti Saxena, a brief resident of Bihar, discovered gular close to her home in Patna. Intrigued by the mythical narratives around this food, she began tracing its social life over time.

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