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{{Short description|Cooking vessel from the Indian subcontinent}}
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[[Image:Handi-and-karahi.jpg|thumb|right|300px|A small decorative ''[[karahi]]'' (left) and ''handi'' (right) used to serve [[India]]n food]]
[[Image:Handi-and-karahi.jpg|thumb|right|300px|A small decorative ''[[karahi]]'' (left) and ''handi'' (right) used to serve [[India]]n food]]


A '''handi''' (Hindi: [[wikt:हांड़ी|हांड़ी]]) is a cooking basin made from [[copper]] or [[clay]] (pot), which calls the [[India]]n subcontinent home. It is utilised primarily in [[Cuisine of India|north Indian]], [[Cuisine of Pakistan|Pakistani]] and [[Bangladeshi cuisine|Bangladeshi]] cooking.  
A '''handi''' (Hindi: [[wikt:हांड़ी|हांड़ी]]) is a cooking basin made from [[copper]] or [[clay]] (pot) originating in the [[India]]n subcontinent used primarily in [[Cuisine of India| Indian]], [[Cuisine of Pakistan|Pakistani]] and [[Bangladeshi cuisine|Bangladeshi]] cooking.  


This vessel is deep and has a broad mouth, and since there are a wide variety of dishes cooked throughout the [[India]]n subcontinent using the handi, their names vary too, symbolising its use – such as Chicken Handi, Handi [[Paneer]], or Handi Komdi.  
This vessel is deep and has a broad mouth. Since there are a wide variety of dishes cooked throughout the [[India]]n subcontinent using the handi, their names associated with this vessel vary – such as Chicken Handi, Handi [[Paneer]], or Handi Komdi.  


Due to the vast differences in language and culture from region to region in the [[India]]n subcontinent, differing names are given to the handi. This includes '''''tasla''''', '''''tasli''''', '''''karahi''''', '''''degchi and ahuna.'''''
Due to the vast differences in language and culture from region to region in the [[India]]n subcontinent, differing names are given to the handi. This includes '''''tasla''''', '''''tasli''''', '''''karahi''''', '''''degchi and ahuna.'''''


The handi is also physically likened to [[United States|American]] [[beanpot]]s, [[Mexico|Mexican]] and [[Spain|Spanish]] ''[[olla]]s'', and [[France|French]] ''[[soupière]]s'', which are utilised in similar fashion to the handi in regards to cooking.  
The handi is also physically likened to [[United States|American]] [[beanpot]]s and [[Spain|Spanish]] [[olla]]s among others.


It is also a major component of the [[Dahi Handi]] festival that is celebrated annually to mark the celebration of the birth of [[Krishna]] – a [[Hindu]] God.  
It is also a major component of the [[Dahi Handi]] festival that is celebrated annually to mark the celebration of the birth of [[Krishna]] – a [[Hindu]] God.


==Uses of the handi==
==Uses of the handi==
The handi is utilised mainly for cooking purposes, especially for slow-cooking. For example when any dish is cooked in the handi – the lid is sealed to it, using dough so steam cannot escape, preserving the nutrients in the food. In turn this also allows for the food to be cooked using its own water content, accentuating its flavour and tang.
The handi is utilised mainly for cooking purposes, especially for slow-cooking. For example, when any dish is cooked in the handi – the lid is sealed to it, using dough so steam cannot escape, preserving the nutrients in the food. In turn this also allows for the food to be cooked using its own water content, accentuating its flavour and tang.


==Dishes cooked in the Handi==
==Dishes cooked in the handi==
There are many dishes that are cooked using the Handi. Many of the dishes’ names actually incorporate the word ‘Handi’ into it. Some of these dishes include:  
There are many dishes that are cooked using the Handi. Many of the dishes’ names actually incorporate the word ‘Handi’ into it. Some of these dishes include:  
* Chicken Handi
* Handi [[Biryani]]  
* Handi [[Biryani]]  
* Handi [[Khichdi]]  
* Handi [[Khichdi]]  
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* Laziz Lamb Handi
* Laziz Lamb Handi
* Khade Masala Ka Ghost
* Khade Masala Ka Ghost
==History of pottery in India==
[[Pottery]] has played a significant role in the history of arts in [[India]], dating back to the [[Indus Valley Civilisation]].<ref name="three">Kumar - Banglapedia. (2014). Retrieved 4 September 2020, from http://en.banglapedia.org/index.php?title=Kumar</ref> It is one of the most iconic components of [[India]]n history. There was a time when [[Pottery]] was the main source of income for the regular [[India]]n middle class.<ref name= "two">History of [[copper]] Utensils. (2019). Retrieved 1 September 2020, from https://www.esamskriti.com/e/Culture/[[India]]n-Culture/History-of-[[copper]]-Utensils-1.aspx</ref><ref name="three" /> It has been and continues to be a medium through which humans have expressed their emotions and desires as a form of art. Every piece of [[Pottery]] is symbolic of something perpetuated by its physical shape, colour and often the artwork on the [[Pottery]] itself.<ref name="two" />
Originally pots were made to store water during the hot summers, and grains of crops but later on were used to make utensils used in the kitchen like cups, plates, and indeed saucepans. Subsequently, the handi was made from [[clay]] as a type of pot too.<ref name="two" /><ref name="three" /><ref name="six">Shubhashree, M., Naik, R., Doddamani, S. and Bhavya, B., (2020). Preventive strategies to combat infections–a review of traditional practices and [[Ayurveda]] concepts. International Journal of Complementary & Alternative Medicine, (3), p.all.</ref>
The raw material to construct pots – [[clay]] – is in abundance across the [[India]]n sub-continent, hence [[Pottery]] in [[India]] from its initial times to become very popular in its use was inevitable. With the increase of [[Pottery]] across [[India]], and due to its popularity it was beginning to be traded to different parts of the world.<ref name="two" /><ref name="three" /><ref name="six" /><ref name="seven">Sudha, P., Ganesan, S., Pazhani, G., Ramamurthy, T., Nair, G. and Venkatasubramanian, P., (2012). Storing Drinking-water in [[copper]] pots Kills Contaminating Diarrhoeagenic Bacteria. Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition, p.all.</ref>
Painting on pots began during the [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] reign in [[India]] in the 12th century. The [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] rulers incentivised potters from [[Central [[Asia]] and Persia to migrate to [[India]], which exponentially increased the popularity and rate of production of [[Pottery]] in [[India]].<ref name="two" />
==History of copper utensils / vessels==
[[Copper]] has been used widely on Earth by Humans for nearly 6000 years – often being referred to as the "Jewellery of the Kitchen".<ref name="two" /> Before the [[Bronze Age]], [[copper]] was the most widely used metal especially throughout [[Asia]], [[Europe]], [[Mesopotamia]] and [[Egypt]]. The [[copper]]smiths of those times, though not highly regarded in modern times, were one of the most imperative communities to live many centuries ago.<ref name="two" />
[[Copper]] naturally possesses many properties that are highly useful for kitchen utensils and cooking ware.<ref name="two" /><ref name="six" /><ref name="seven" /> It is highly conductive, very durable, and highly resistant to corrosion. Because of its abundance across the world, this allowed [[copper]] to purchased in a variety of shapes and sizes, with price varying depending on the quality of the utensil.<ref name="six" /><ref name="seven" />
During the [[Mesopotamia]]n age, instead of stone and rock, [[copper]] was utilised. Proof of [[copper]] utensils have been found in [[Mesopotamia]], more so in the region of the Sumerians.<ref name="two" /> Even earlier, it is known that [[copper]] was used to create weapons and tools, including arrows, knives, and spearheads.<ref name="two" />
In [[Egypt]], [[copper]] started being used widely around 2700 BC. <sup>[2]</sup>It was used mostly to build water pipelines and sewerage systems throughout villages. Later, its use broadened to artistry, cookware, vessels, and even different kinds of instruments. [[Egypt]]ians were renowned for creating cutlery made from [[copper]], such as tongs and large spoons.<ref name="two" /><ref name="six" /> Utensils like pots, plates and trays were also widely utilised across [[Egypt]]. Many of the temples in [[Egypt]] house [[copper]] vessels, plus more decorations such as drums, pillars and mirrors.<ref name="two" />
A country where [[copper]] has been used extensively is [[India]]. It has a deep-rooted history in its use of [[copper]].<ref name="two" /><ref name="six" /><ref name="seven" /> It was used in a variety of ways, in villages, nooks, mills. You could find it everywhere from large fortresses to rugged slums, statues to roadside carts.<ref name="two" /><ref name="six" /><ref name="seven" /> [[Copper]] has held an ancient artistic impact within [[India]], let alone being of great religious and cultural significance. During the [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] reigns of [[India]], it was used in coins, weapons – especially cannons, and utensils. In Royal [[India]]n palaces, [[copper]] was used to make boxes to store many things like spices, nuts, clothes, water. A lot of art and work went into creating these objects out of [[copper]], carved intricately to every minute detail.<ref name="two" />
A major use of [[copper]] has been in that of [[Ayurveda]] – a natural system of [[India]]n medicine.<ref name="six" /><ref name="seven" /> [[Ayurvedic]] practitioners have believed firmly in the healing strengths of [[copper]]. Many of these practitioners stored water in pots and containers made from [[copper]].<ref name="two" /><ref name="six" /><ref name="seven" /> [[Ayurveda]] says that, [[copper]] is one metal that has immense capacity to balance the three main elements of the body – vata, kapha and pitta. Vata is the energy of movement, pitta is metabolism, kapha is the energy that binds the structure of the body.<ref name="six" />


==Significance of the Dahi Handi festival==
==Significance of the Dahi Handi festival==
The [[Dahi Handi]] festival is a [[Hindu]] festive event, that occurs to celebrate the birth of [[Krishna]] (a [[Hindu]] God), which is also known as [[Krishna Janmashtami]]. The festival is held annually around August to September, with dates varying year to year.<ref name= "one">[https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/food-news/significance-of-dahi-handi-on-Krishna-Janmashtami/photostory/77462300.cms?picid=77462329 Significance of [[Dahi Handi]] on [[Krishna]] [[Krishna Janmashtami]] ]| [[The Times of India]]. (2020). Retrieved 4 September 2020</ref><ref name= "four">Melton, J. (2011). In Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays, Festivals, Solemn Observances, and Spiritual Commemorations (1st ed., p. 459). ABC-CLIO.</ref><ref name= "five">Roy, C. (2005). In Traditional festivals : A Multicultural Encyclopedia (1st ed., pp. 213–215). Santa Barbara, California: ABC-CLIO.</ref>
The [[Dahi Handi]] festival is a [[Hindu]] festive event, that occurs to celebrate the birth of [[Krishna]] (a [[Hindu]] Deity), which is also known as [[Krishna Janmashtami]]. The festival is held annually around August to September, with dates varying year to year.<ref name= "one">[https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/food-news/significance-of-dahi-handi-on-Krishna-Janmashtami/photostory/77462300.cms?picid=77462329 Significance of Dahi Handi on Krishna Krishna Janmashtami ]| [[The Times of India]]. (2020). Retrieved 4 September 2020</ref><ref name= "four">Melton, J. (2011). In Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays, Festivals, Solemn Observances, and Spiritual Commemorations (1st ed., p. 459). ABC-CLIO.</ref><ref name= "five">Roy, C. (2005). In Traditional festivals : A Multicultural Encyclopedia (1st ed., pp. 213–215). Santa Barbara, California: ABC-CLIO.</ref>


[[Krishna]] is believed to be the eighth avatar of the Lord [[Vishnu]], who was born to get rid of [[Mathura]] from the allegedly cruel king [[Kamsa]]. He was born to [[Kamsa]]’s sister; [[Devaki]], and her husband [[Vasudeva]]. However, in order to survive from [[Kamsa]]’s cruel and wrathful ways, [[Krishna]] was raised by his foster parents Nand and [[Yashoda]] in the village of Vrindavan.<ref name="one" />
[[Krishna]] is believed to be the eighth avatar of the Lord [[Vishnu]], who was born to get [[Mathura]] saved from the cruel king [[Kamsa]]. He was born of [[Kamsa]]’s sister; [[Devaki]], and her husband [[Vasudeva]]. However, in order to survive from [[Kamsa]]’s cruel and wrathful ways, [[Krishna]] was raised by his foster parents Nanda and [[Yashoda]] in the village of [[Gokul]], [[Vrindavan]].<ref name="one" />


There is a legend regarding Lord [[Krishna]]. [[Krishna]] was raised in a village in northern [[India]], called Vrindavan, in the state of Uttar Pradesh. He used to love a variety of [[dairy]] products, especially white butter (Makhan) whilst growing up as a child. Because of this, he even used to steal [[dairy]] produce from neighbours in the village, and from surrounding villages too. Due to these activities, [[Krishna]] gained the reputation of being a Makhan Chor or Navneet Chor (thief of butter).<ref name="one" /><ref name="four" /> His foster mother [[Yashoda]] started to get frustrated by his stealing habits. Thus she told the women in the village and surrounding villages to tie their [[dairy]] produce in a handi, especially Makhan at a height [[Krishna]] would not be able to reach. [[Yashoda]] also used to restrain him as much as she could. However, [[Krishna]] using his wit would gather his friends and other children to form a human pyramid (as they do now every year) to break handis hanging on the ceilings in houses of the neighbourhood to steal curd and butter – which is why they have [[yoghurt]] or other [[dairy]] hanging in the handi during present festivals.<ref name="one" /><ref name="four" /><ref name="five" />
There is a legend regarding Lord [[Krishna]]. [[Krishna]] was raised in a village in northern [[India]], called Vrindavan, in the state of Uttar Pradesh. He used to love a variety of [[dairy]] products, especially white butter (Makhan) whilst growing up as a child. Because of this, he even used to steal [[dairy]] produce from neighbours in the village, and from surrounding villages too. Due to these activities, [[Krishna]] gained the reputation of being a Makhan Chor or Navneet Chor (thief of butter).<ref name="one" /><ref name="four" /> His foster mother [[Yashoda]] started to get frustrated by his stealing habits. Thus she told the women in the village and surrounding villages to tie their [[dairy]] produce in a handi, especially Makhan at a height [[Krishna]] would not be able to reach. [[Yashoda]] also used to restrain him as much as she could. However, [[Krishna]] using his wit would gather his friends and other children to form a human pyramid (as they do now every year) to break handis hanging on the ceilings in houses of the neighbourhood to steal curd and butter – which is why they have [[yoghurt]] or other [[dairy]] hanging in the handi during present festivals.<ref name="one" /><ref name="four" /><ref name="five" />
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[[Category:Indian food preparation utensils]]
[[Category:Indian food preparation utensils]]
[[Category:Cooking vessels]]
[[Category:Cooking vessels]]
[[Category:Bangladeshi food preparation utensils]]

Latest revision as of 11:30, 19 November 2025


For the H&I TV network, see Heroes & Icons.
A small decorative karahi (left) and handi (right) used to serve Indian food

A handi (Hindi: हांड़ी) is a cooking basin made from copper or clay (pot) originating in the Indian subcontinent used primarily in Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi cooking.

This vessel is deep and has a broad mouth. Since there are a wide variety of dishes cooked throughout the Indian subcontinent using the handi, their names associated with this vessel vary – such as Chicken Handi, Handi Paneer, or Handi Komdi.

Due to the vast differences in language and culture from region to region in the Indian subcontinent, differing names are given to the handi. This includes tasla, tasli, karahi, degchi and ahuna.

The handi is also physically likened to American beanpots and Spanish ollas among others.

It is also a major component of the Dahi Handi festival that is celebrated annually to mark the celebration of the birth of Krishna – a Hindu God.

Uses of the handi[edit | edit source]

The handi is utilised mainly for cooking purposes, especially for slow-cooking. For example, when any dish is cooked in the handi – the lid is sealed to it, using dough so steam cannot escape, preserving the nutrients in the food. In turn this also allows for the food to be cooked using its own water content, accentuating its flavour and tang.

Dishes cooked in the handi[edit | edit source]

There are many dishes that are cooked using the Handi. Many of the dishes’ names actually incorporate the word ‘Handi’ into it. Some of these dishes include:

  • Handi Biryani
  • Handi Khichdi
  • Diwani Handi
  • Handi Paneer
  • Handi Komdi
  • Handi Corn Sabzi
  • Laziz Lamb Handi
  • Khade Masala Ka Ghost

Significance of the Dahi Handi festival[edit | edit source]

The Dahi Handi festival is a Hindu festive event, that occurs to celebrate the birth of Krishna (a Hindu Deity), which is also known as Krishna Janmashtami. The festival is held annually around August to September, with dates varying year to year.[1][2][3]

Krishna is believed to be the eighth avatar of the Lord Vishnu, who was born to get Mathura saved from the cruel king Kamsa. He was born of Kamsa’s sister; Devaki, and her husband Vasudeva. However, in order to survive from Kamsa’s cruel and wrathful ways, Krishna was raised by his foster parents Nanda and Yashoda in the village of Gokul, Vrindavan.[1]

There is a legend regarding Lord Krishna. Krishna was raised in a village in northern India, called Vrindavan, in the state of Uttar Pradesh. He used to love a variety of dairy products, especially white butter (Makhan) whilst growing up as a child. Because of this, he even used to steal dairy produce from neighbours in the village, and from surrounding villages too. Due to these activities, Krishna gained the reputation of being a Makhan Chor or Navneet Chor (thief of butter).[1][2] His foster mother Yashoda started to get frustrated by his stealing habits. Thus she told the women in the village and surrounding villages to tie their dairy produce in a handi, especially Makhan at a height Krishna would not be able to reach. Yashoda also used to restrain him as much as she could. However, Krishna using his wit would gather his friends and other children to form a human pyramid (as they do now every year) to break handis hanging on the ceilings in houses of the neighbourhood to steal curd and butter – which is why they have yoghurt or other dairy hanging in the handi during present festivals.[1][2][3]

Another legend that exists is that supposedly, the king Kamsa during Krishna’s times denied children sufficient nourishment through the seizing of dairy products, even though there was an abundance of it. Hence, Krishna and his peers would steal and distribute the dairy products among themselves.[1][2] A major event that occurs during the festival is the sport that is played – called Dahi Handi. It involves the hanging of the handi that is filled with Dahi (yoghurt) at a difficult height to reach – usually at 30 ft.[1][2]

Then young boys and men create teams to form a large human pyramid to try to reach and break open the pot. Girls on the ground form circles around the pyramid – sing songs and dance. It often becomes very competitive between teams, with the winning team achieving some sort of prize for breaking the pot. The teams that play this sport are highly dedicated, especially in the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat. They practice weeks ahead of the festival, often involving lots of focus, coordination and most of all enthusiasm.[1][2][3]

One human pyramid can have as many as nine layers to it. The lower levels or layers have the stronger, sturdier people who can bear lots of mass on their shoulders. As you go up the levels, the lighter the boys get, with the top-most boy being the lightest, smallest and has the most energy who can break open the handi. The persons that form the pyramid are called ‘Govinda Pathak’ or ‘Govinda.’ Every year at this festival, many a team participate mostly in the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat, with the winning team being rewarded usually in the form of money, sweets or other prizes. The Dahi Handi itself usually contains yoghurt, ghee, sometimes milk and some forms of nuts like almonds.[2][3]

Not all attempts for every group are successful. People often end up tumbling down from the top to the bottom of the human pyramid, which not only is very painful but can be quite dangerous, sometimes causing serious injury.[1]

The community including the neighbourhood where the event occurs gather in large numbers. Many of them throw water balloons, and buckets of water down on the participating teams adding a modern touch to the festival. Due to the atmospheric pressure and excitement leading up to the festival, the teams have lots of adrenaline running through their blood, motivating them to break the Dahi Handi.[1][3]

Prior to and following the ceremony of breaking open the handi, folk dances are performed by members of the team and surrounding people. One such dance ‘Jhaanki,’ which is a special dance to admire Lord Krishna. Others include ‘Lavani,’ which are organised and performed to keep the spectators entertained and add variation to the event. Lavani is a form of dance popular in Maharashtra, India typically performed to the Dholki, an Indian percussion instrument.[2][3]

There are however many issues that have arisen due to this festival. This includes excessive littering by the public every year. There is also lots of congestion in traffic that is caused during the day of the Dahi Handi festival. Another issue is that of significant sound pollution, which is enhanced with large crowds.[1] The biggest issue of this festival is the increased risk of mortality amongst participants. Ever since 2000, because the festival became much more competitive, the number of injuries incurred has risen greatly compared to previous years. To reduce the risk of injury it has been proposed on multiple occasions to lower the height of the handi, whilst also making it mandatory for participants to wear protective gear. In 2014 Maharashtra's government placed a ban on children under the age of 12 participating in the Dahi Handi festival.[1][2][3]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 Significance of Dahi Handi on Krishna Krishna Janmashtami | The Times of India. (2020). Retrieved 4 September 2020
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 Melton, J. (2011). In Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays, Festivals, Solemn Observances, and Spiritual Commemorations (1st ed., p. 459). ABC-CLIO.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 Roy, C. (2005). In Traditional festivals : A Multicultural Encyclopedia (1st ed., pp. 213–215). Santa Barbara, California: ABC-CLIO.
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