Makki ki Roti: A Culinary Tapestry Weaving Through Time

Makki ki roti is a flat unleavened bread made from cornmeal, primarily eaten in the northern and western regions of India and also in Nepal. It is a winter speciality as the corn crop is harvested during that season. Corn has a long history in the Indian subcontinent and is believed to have been domesticated in present-day Mexico over 9,000 years ago. It was introduced to the Indian subcontinent through trade routes, and its cultivation spread to different regions over time.

Makki ki roti is often served with warming winter dishes based on greens, such as sarson ka saag (mustard greens curry) and chana dal (split chickpeas). It is also eaten with ghee (clarified butter), jaggery (unrefined sugar), and pickles. Makki ki roti reflects the cultural values and traditions of Punjab, such as its simplicity, diversity, resilience, and hospitality. It is also associated with some of the historical events or personalities that influenced or popularized it in Punjab, such as the Bishnoi movement, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, or Bhagat Singh.

The Bishnoi movement was a religious and social reform movement that started in the 15th century in Rajasthan and later spread to Punjab and other parts of India. The Bishnois are known for their ecological conservation and animal protection practices. They follow 29 principles, one of which is to eat only vegetarian food. They also grow and consume corn as a staple food, and makki ki roti is one of their favourite dishes.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. He was born in 1469 in Nankana Sahib, which is now in Pakistan. He travelled extensively across the Indian subcontinent and beyond, spreading his message of universal brotherhood, equality, and service. He also composed many hymns and poems, some of which mention or praise makki ki roti. For example, in one of his verses, he says:

ਮੱਕੀ ਦੀ ਰੋਟੀ ਕਾਲੇ ਚਨੇ ਦਾ ਸਾਗ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮ ਚੜ੍ਹਦੀ ਕਲਾ ਤੇਰੇ ਭਾਣੇ ਸਰਬਤ ਦਾ ਭਲਾ

Makki di roti kale chane da saag Nanak naam chardi kala tere bhaane sarbat da bhala

Corn bread and black chickpeas curry Nanak, with your name, the spirit rises and with your will, may everyone be blessed.

Bhagat Singh was a revolutionary freedom fighter and a socialist leader who fought against British colonial rule in India. He was born in 1907 in Banga, which is now in Pakistan. He was involved in many acts of resistance and protest, such as the Lahore Conspiracy Case, the Central Legislative Assembly bombing, and the hunger strike in jail. He was hanged by the British in 1931 at the age of 23. He is considered a martyr and a hero by many Indians, especially Punjabis. He was also fond of makki ki roti and sarson ka saag, and he requested them as his last meal before his execution.

Makki ki roti has a significant role in the economy and society of Punjab. It is a nutritious and affordable food that provides energy and sustenance to the hard-working people of the land. It is also a symbol of the rich and diverse heritage of Punjab, which has been shaped by various influences and events over the centuries. Makki ki roti is not just a bread, but a taste of Punjab’s history and culture.

Now to the fun part

Makki Vs. Science

Makki ki roti is a product of science, as it is made from corn, which is one of the oldest and most widely cultivated crops in the world. Corn has a long history in the Indian subcontinent and is believed to have been domesticated in present-day Mexico over 9,000 years ago. It was introduced to the Indian subcontinent through trade routes, and its cultivation spread to different regions over time. Corn is a versatile and adaptable crop, as it can grow in various climates and soils, and can be used for various purposes, such as food, feed, fuel, and industrial materials. Corn is also a rich source of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious and affordable food for millions of people. Corn is also a subject of scientific research and innovation, as scientists have developed various varieties and hybrids of corn to improve its yield, quality, and resistance to pests and diseases.

Makki Vs. Sociology

Makki ki roti is a reflection of sociology, as it is influenced by the social and cultural factors of the regions where it is eaten. Makki ki roti is often served with warming winter dishes based on greens, such as sarson ka saag (mustard greens curry) and chana dal (split chickpeas). It is also eaten with ghee (clarified butter), jaggery (unrefined sugar), and pickles. Makki ki roti reflects the cultural values and traditions of Punjab, such as its simplicity, diversity, resilience, and hospitality. It is also associated with some of the historical events or personalities that influenced or popularized it in Punjab, such as the Bishnoi movement, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, or Bhagat Singh. Makki ki roti is also a symbol of the rural lifestyle and the hard-working spirit of the farmers who grow corn in their fields. Makki ki roti is also a part of the festivals and celebrations of the people who enjoy it with their families and friends.

Makki Vs. History

Makki ki roti is a witness of history, as it has been a part of the historical changes and developments that have occurred in the regions where it is eaten. Makki ki roti has been a part of the ancient civilizations that cultivated corn in the Indian subcontinent1. Makki ki roti has also been a part of the colonial era, when corn was introduced to Punjab by the British in the 19th century, and became a staple food for the rural people who grew it in their fields. Makki ki roti was also been a part of the freedom struggle when it was requested by Bhagat Singh as his last meal before his execution by the British in 1931. Makki ki roti has also been a part of the modern era, when it has faced some challenges and opportunities due to the changing economic and environmental conditions, such as market demand, competition from other grains, climate change, and innovation potential.

As we savour the simplicity of Makki ki roti on our plates, let us recognize it as more than a culinary delight—it is a living testament to Punjab's rich heritage. Through the annals of time, Makki ki roti has evolved, adapting to scientific innovations, embodying sociological values, and bearing witness to historical events. In every bite, it encapsulates the spirit of resilience, diversity, and the cultural tapestry that defines Punjab. Makki ki roti is not just bread; it is a taste of Punjab's history and culture, reminding us that every morsel is a connection to a legacy that transcends generations.

Peace Out