Kodoko Brand Become Global
CNN has placed Nepal’s ‘Raksi’, an alcoholic drink in World’s 50 most delicious drinks. Describing ‘Raksi’ CNN has written, ‘Made from millet or rice, Raksi is strong on the nose and sends a burning sensation straight down your throat that resolves itself into a surprisingly smooth, velvety sensation’.
Recognition of Raksi by CNN is expected to attract food and drinks lovers from far and wide. Nepal has more to offer in the culinary and drinks segment, most of them being indigenous with a unique way of making.
This homebrew drink is taken auspicious to celebrate festivals, which itself is the reason to celebrate. Raksi is ranked 41 on the list and supersedes popular drinks such as Mango lassi, India, Guinness, Ireland, Fanta, Germany, Red Bull, and Austria. Top on the list is a global drink- water.
Kodoko Rakshi: A Traditional Indigenous Drink in Nepal
Kodoko Rakshi is an indigenous distilled alcoholic drink that originated from the mountainous region of Nepal, made from the fourth major crop in Nepal, the Finger Millet, locally harvested during September and October. This drink has been strongly rooted in the indigenous people in the region and is generally consumed during the winter season. When CNN listed Kodo ko Rakshi as one of the top 50 beverages, the discussion turned to internationalisation. CNN has listed it as one of the 41 best drinks. This article will explore the history and culture of this interesting drink.
Product Background
Kodoko Rakshi is an indigenous distilled alcoholic drink originating from the mountainous region of Nepal. It is brewed from the fourth major crop in Nepal, the Finger Millet, locally harvested during October/November. This drink has been strongly rooted to the indigenous people in the region and is used right from offerings to gods and goddesses, to recreational events, to various social ceremonies like marriages or even during funerals.
The world-famous Brave Gurkhas are mainly from these indigenous communities of Nepal. The Rais, the Gurungs, the Limbus, the Magars, the Tamangs, the Sherpas and so on. Most would agree if we called this the favourite spirit of Gurkhas.
History
Kodoko Rakshi has a very old history. Although it is not known exactly at what time it started, it has been practised for hundreds of years already. Evidence of its use is also found in kings and palaces. Nepali tribal castes such as Gurung, Magar, Rai, Limbu, and Newar castes may have started it.
Kodo or Millet
Kodo is one of the most widely grown crops in Nepal’s hilly region. It is cultivated in Jun and July and brought home in September and November. Medical science has termed it as a highly nutritious food. Now let’s talk about the alcohol of Kodo.
How does it taste?
How does Kodoko Rakshi taste? It is a clear, sparkling, slightly sweet elixir that’s traditionally served in the Himalayan region of Nepal.
How does Kodoko Rakshi affect the body?
Kodoko wine is a very traditional style of wine. It does not harm the body like other alcohols because it does not use any other type of chemicals. It is also used as a medicine for body aches or colds.
How is it made?
The alcoholic drink is made by boiling the millet in a large cauldron. The cauldron is then placed on a fire and allowed to boil. The boiling process is then left to simmer while the millet is stirred back and forth. This process is repeated for three hours. The millet is then added to a large bucket of water and allowed to soak for one hour. Then mix the yeast or marcha (yeast or marcha is a substance made from various wild herbs and flour) pieces well in the boiled millet. Keep the mixture of millet and yeast in a clean cloth for 10 to 15 days with warm. Put back it in a container that can be used for evaporation and cook for half an hour. In this way, the alcohol of Kodo or millet is prepared.
Where can you buy it?
If you are out of Nepal, you will not be able to taste Kodo’s liquor. You will have to come to Nepal for this. If you visit the villages of Nepal, you will get a real taste of this without money.
On what occasions is it more used?
Nepal is a country with many cultures. There are many castes and different lifestyles, traditions, and religions here. The alcohol of Kodo is indispensable in the religious ceremonies and festivals of the different castes. It is used as an omen or to be offered to God. It is also used to entertain friends and relatives.
Legal Issues
Like other homemade liquors, the alcohol of Kodo is not legally recognized. Legally, it is considered illegal. But in practice, it appears to be much higher than the law. Every position and type of person consumes it. But why is it made illegal?
Debates and Discussions
Various studies have shown that alcohol is widely used in Nepal. In a day, there is more alcohol than diesel and petrol used by vehicles. It seems that billions of rupees are being spent on buying foreign liquor every year. But reports such as CNN are being ignored. Foreigners are talking about the country’s alcohol of Kodo, but the country is saying it is illegal. Some central and regional parliamentarians are in favour of giving legal recognition to it. Only a limited number of media outlets are raising this issue. There is not enough discussion about this. The government and the major political parties seem to be silent. It seems that those who are responsible seem to be in a deep sleep.
Conclusion
It is said that alcohol consumption is harmful to health, but the number of users is increasing. Using domestic liquor may be wiser than consuming foreign liquor and ruining one’s wealth and health. If you want to drink alcohol taste once Kodo ko Rakshi!