India is a country of diversity, and what better way to explain the cauldron of cultures than food? Every state in the country has its unique platter that is associated with its geography, demography, culture and tradition.
But not many citizens are aware of the culinary diversity that rules the Indian kitchens from the north to the south, the west to the east, and beyond, to the North East. This food ignorance is one of the reasons that breeds cultural intolerance.
What if you can teach your child about this diversity from a tender age so that she/he grow up to be a responsible citizen with an inclusive mindset? A new book, 123 Idlis In A Sambar Sea, written by Ashwitha Jayakumar, can be that starting point in teaching inclusivity.
With beautiful and colourful illustrations by Tanya Sharma, this book is targeted at toddlers who are getting acquainted with the concept of books by looking at pictures and written words, which are yet to make sense to them.
The book has two-line descriptions of the most popular food from different states, like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Of course, the North East, which offers a vast range of tribal delicacies, is missing in the books, and the region should have been featured, given that it has made its way to the mainland platter.
Inclusion of some tribal delicacies from states like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh would have made the early learners familiar with another aspect of Indian cuisine.
Nonetheless, the book, published by AdiDev Press, is a starter on the learning table and can inspire more such readings to nurture young minds for a secular and diverse India.
Book: 123 Idlis In A Sambar Sea; Author: Ashwitha Jayakumar; Illustration: Tanya Sharma; Publisher: AdiDev Press; Price: Rs 499
Banner image by Chan Walrus: https://www.pexels.com/photo/platter-of-foods-941869/
