New Delhi, May 31: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted Odisha’s traditional summer drink 'Bela Pana' (Wood apple juice) while urging people across the country to stay hydrated and adopt indigenous beverages to combat the intense heat and heatwave conditions prevailing in many regions.

Addressing the 134th episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi said traditional drinks prepared in Indian households have long helped people stay cool during the summer season and represent the country’s rich cultural diversity.

“Currently, most parts of the country are reeling under intense heat, scorching sun, hot winds; it is necessary to take care of yourselves in this season,” the Prime Minister said.

He advised citizens to drink sufficient water, exercise caution while venturing out in the sun and follow heat-related guidelines issued by the government.

“In our country, the way to fight heat is often found in the kitchen. You must have also seen that as temperatures rise, the taste and style of the kitchen also change. In some places, water is kept in earthen pots, yoghurt begins to set, raw mangoes start to boil, and then begins a round of traditional drinks,” he said.

The Prime Minister then referred to a variety of regional beverages consumed across India during summer.

“You are also familiar with the traditional drinks. In Northern India, you will find 'Aam Panna' at many places, which gives the taste of raw mango and brings relief from the heat, too. Lassi is found in Punjab and Haryana in big glasses. In Rajasthan and Gujarat, buttermilk becomes a part of every meal. In Bihar, Jharkhand and Western UP, Sattu Sharbat is unmatched as it fills the stomach and gives energy also. Kokum Sharbat and Sol Kadhi are consumed in Konkan and Goa,” he said.

PM Modi specifically mentioned Odisha’s Bela Pana, alongside several traditional drinks from southern India.

“In South India, one can get Panakam, Neer Mor and Sambaram and in Odisha, Bela Pana,” he said.

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Describing these beverages as cultural symbols, the Prime Minister said, “These are not just drinks but part of the traditions of different cultures of India. Additionally, they also reflect the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.”

He noted that most of these drinks originated from local kitchens and farms and have been passed down through generations.

“Do keep in mind, most of these things have originated from our own kitchens and farms. No big branding, but generations of experience are embedded in them. You too shall enjoy such traditional drinks during summers,” PM Modi added.