Buransh Squash

Description

Burans, is the bright red flower whose scientific name is Rhododendron arboreum is the state flower of Uttarakhand. Burans is distributed all across Himalayas in the north and Siliguri in the south of the country. Also found in the hilly regions of Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan and all the other neighbouring countries, the evergreen tree has its roots in India. Known for its bright red (sometimes pink, and rarely white) scarlet shaped flowers, the tree has been declared the state tree for Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh as well. In a typical Garhwal- based village setup, women used to go around plucking and collecting these saccharin nectar filled flowers. The flower was, then, traditionally put to use for multiple purposes like grinding chutney, pickles, offerings to deities, and various other medicinal uses. However, in 1986, Dr Anil Joshi and Tikaram Pathak (from HESCO, an NGO) processed squash out of the flower leading to the discovery of the famous Burans Juice. Burans, The welcome drink of Uttarakhand, must try food in Uttarakhand. Served, mostly, in a non-fancy glass, the drink looks like every other red-hued brew of rose, strawberry, or raspberry juices. However, a single sip makes you aware of the fact that it is something you haven’t tasted ever before. The consistent jelly-like sweet and distinctive taste will make you wanting for it more and more with each and every sip you take. The refreshing drink is also an appetiser and a mountain sickness reliever. The flower-like taste may, sometime, take its time in getting used to, but once you do, you’ll always find yourself craving for the taste of Burans. The organically made squash is naturally sweet, however, extra sweetness and preservatives are sometimes added for commercial sales.

Additional information