Why India Needs to Revive its Traditional Rice Varieties

For thousands of years, traditional rice has been the backbone of Indian kitchens. Generations grew up on these grains because of their nutrition, aroma, and medicinal value. With the Green Revolution and the commercialization of polished white rice, the old varieties were almost neglected. Today, redemption implies much more than simply honoring our culture-wellness and sustainable farming methods that go hand in hand with these concepts, along with the need to keep our roots intact.

The Forgotten Treasure of Traditional Rice

Once upon a time, India was home to more than 100,000 traditional varieties of rice suited to the soil and climate of the region. Today, only a few remain. In contrast to polished rice, a usual kind that loses most of its goodness, traditional rice remains intact with its natural fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. We had these traditional varieties of rice known as hand-pound rice, red rice, and black rice in our daily diets and the medicines thereof of Ayurveda.

Health Benefits of Traditional Rice

1. Traditional Rice and Diabetes Control

Since polished white rice has a high glycemic index, it can raise the blood sugar level quickly. With that, diabetic-friendly rice varieties like red rice, black rice, or Navara rice are naturally lower on the GI scale; they release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, giving them an advantage for diabetics or persons who prefer weight management.

2. The Power of Hand-Pound Rice

Hand-pound rice is lighter than brown rice yet more nutritious than polished rice. It retains just the right amount of bran, making it easy to digest while still being rich in minerals and protein. A good example is Aishwarya Dampudu Biyyam—stone-milled, naturally aged, and gentle on the stomach while still full of strength-building nutrients.

3. Fiber-Rich Goodness

Traditional rice often carries more fiber than modern varieties. This helps in digestion, keeps cholesterol under control, and supports heart health. A fiber-rich diet also lowers the risk of colon problems and keeps the gut strong in the long run.

4. Nutritious Rice for Daily Health

Everyday meals should do more than just fill the stomach—they should truly nourish the body. Traditional varieties like Mapillai Samba, Kattuyanam, and Aishwarya hand-pound rice are not only fiber-rich rice options but are also high in Vitamin B1, magnesium, and iron. They help improve stamina, boost immunity, and serve as a balanced alternative to modern refined rice.

Why Reinstatement of Traditional Rice Holds Importance Today

Better-for-Health - Nutritive, low-GI rice for diabetics and weight watchers.

Supporting Farmers - Most traditional rice varieties are grown with little or no chemical interference, which liberates the soil and water.

Conserving Biodiversity - Every variety that we lose is an agricultural heritage lost forever.

Taste and Aroma - From the brownish-red nutty taste of red rice to the scent of Jeera Samba, traditional rice adds its spirit to the plate.

Aishwarya Dampudu Biyyam – Bringing Tradition Back to Your Plate

Among the many traditional grains, Aishwarya Dampudu Biyyam stands out. This hand-pound rice is naturally aged for over two years, giving it a soft texture, fluffy grains, and a rich aroma.

Easier than Brown Rice – Unlike brown rice, it doesn’t feel heavy on the stomach.

Nutritious Rice – Full of proteins, fiber, and essential minerals.

Low-GI Rice – Releases energy slowly, suitable for diabetics and health-focused eaters.

Fiber-Rich Rice – Supports digestion, heart health, and immunity.

Whether it’s for biryani, pulao, or just plain steamed rice, it brings back the taste of tradition in every serving.

Conclusion

Traditional rice, isn’t unlike any other grain, carries history, culture, health, and sustainability within every kernel. Choosing varieties like hand-pounded rice, diabetic rice, fiber-rich rice, and other nutritious rice varieties helps restore healthy diets while sustaining farmer livelihoods in harmony with nature. What we eat today sets the stage for tomorrow. So, back to our kitchens and on the plate goes traditional rice.