PM Modi urged citizens to stay safe during the scorching summer season by drinking water, following government advisories, and consuming traditional Indian beverages such as Aam Panna, Lassi, Buttermilk, Sattu Sharbat, Kokum Sharbat, and Panakam. He highlighted India’s rich cultural heritage and heat-management traditions.
As several parts of India continue to experience soaring temperatures and heatwave conditions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the harsh summer weather. Speaking during the 134th episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of staying hydrated, following government-issued safety guidelines, and embracing traditional Indian beverages that have long been used to combat extreme heat.
Addressing the nation, PM Modi noted that many regions across the country are currently facing intense heat, scorching sunlight, and hot winds. He stressed that citizens should remain vigilant and prioritize their health during this challenging season.
“Most parts of the country are reeling under intense heat, scorching sun, and hot winds. It is necessary to take care of yourselves in this season,” the Prime Minister said during his address.
He advised people to drink sufficient water throughout the day, avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, and carefully follow advisories issued by authorities to prevent heat-related illnesses. Health experts have repeatedly warned that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, particularly among children, senior citizens, and outdoor workers.
Highlighting India’s rich cultural traditions, PM Modi pointed out that many effective remedies for dealing with summer heat have traditionally originated from Indian kitchens. He said that as temperatures rise, food habits and culinary practices naturally evolve to help people stay cool and healthy.
The Prime Minister described how earthen pots are used in many households to keep water naturally cool, while yoghurt and various seasonal preparations become common during the summer months. He emphasized that traditional beverages, prepared using locally available ingredients, have been helping generations cope with hot weather conditions.
Referring to regional specialties across the country, PM Modi mentioned Aam Panna, a popular raw mango drink widely consumed in northern India for its refreshing taste and cooling properties. He also highlighted the popularity of Lassi in Punjab and Haryana, where it is often served in large glasses and remains a favorite summer beverage.
In Rajasthan and Gujarat, buttermilk is a regular part of daily meals and is valued for its cooling effects. Meanwhile, Sattu Sharbat, commonly consumed in Bihar, Jharkhand, and western Uttar Pradesh, is known for providing both energy and nourishment during hot weather.
The Prime Minister further highlighted Kokum Sharbat and Sol Kadhi, popular beverages in the Konkan region and Goa. In southern India, traditional drinks such as Panakam, Neer Mor, and Sambaram continue to be widely enjoyed during the summer season. He also mentioned Bela Panna, a traditional cooling beverage from Odisha.
According to PM Modi, these drinks represent much more than seasonal refreshments. He described them as symbols of India’s diverse cultural heritage and examples of the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
“These are not just drinks but part of the traditions of different cultures of India,” he said.
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Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister encouraged citizens to rediscover and enjoy these indigenous beverages. He noted that most of these recipes have emerged from local kitchens and farms over generations and carry invaluable traditional knowledge without the need for commercial branding. As India continues to face rising temperatures, PM Modi’s message underscored the importance of combining modern safety measures with time-tested traditional practices to stay healthy throughout the summer season.
