Kwati: The Nutrient-Rich Tradition of Shrawan’s Full Moon Day

Today marks the auspicious occasion of Shrawan’s full moon day, celebrated as Janaipurnima or Gunlaa Punhi. Among the cherished traditions on this day is the consumption of a hearty dish known as Kwati, a hot soup prepared from a unique blend of nine different beans.

Kwati, a nutritious soup, comprises the following nine types of beans: mung beans (mung), soya beans (bhatmas), red kidney beans (rajma), black grams (mas), black-eyed peas (bodi), fava beans (bakulla), chickpeas/whole grams (chana), field peas (kerau), and white beans (seto simi).

This traditional dish not only carries cultural significance but also offers a plethora of health benefits associated with each bean used in its preparation:

1. Red Kidney Beans (Rajma): Red kidney beans are believed to lower cholesterol levels, improve cardiovascular health, enhance memory power, and aid digestion. They are protein-rich and beneficial for diabetes patients.
2. Black-Eyed Beans (Bodi): These beans are a powerhouse of protein and contribute to cardiovascular health, sugar level control, blood pressure management, anemia treatment, weight loss, and a reduced risk of pancreatic cancer.
3. Chickpeas (Chana): Chickpeas are packed with protein and nutrients. They support weight loss, help maintain blood pressure levels, balance hormones, and are suitable for diabetes patients.
4. Soya Beans (Bhatmas): Soya beans are rich in protein and fiber, making them a cholesterol and lactose-free superfood. They are low in saturated fats and packed with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
5. Mung Beans (Mung): Mung beans are enriched with potassium, magnesium, and fiber. They contribute to cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels and maintaining blood pressure.
6. Black Gram Beans (Mas): Black grams offer numerous health benefits, including improved gut health, bone strength, heart and kidney function, and lower blood sugar levels. They also enhance the nervous system.
7. Fava Beans (Bakulla): Fava beans are known for promoting bone health, boosting immunity, preventing neural tube defects, and addressing symptoms of anemia and Parkinson’s disease. They aid in weight loss and maintain blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
8. Field Peas (Kerau): Field peas enhance gastrointestinal function, metabolic health, and cardiovascular health, and help in controlling glycemic index.
9. White Beans: White beans support a healthy body weight by increasing muscle mass and improving digestive health.

The consumption of Kwati not only connects people with their cultural roots but also nourishes their bodies with a wide range of essential nutrients. On this special day, as families come together to enjoy this wholesome soup, they are not just honoring tradition but also nurturing their well-being with nature’s bounty.