Life style

Pop crackle, gulp and gasp

Published

3 years ago

2023/02/5

Pani Puri: India’s favourite street food now available in Sri Lanka

Pani puri occupies a special place in Indian hearts and stomachs, so it’s no wonder that the treat has been one of the country’s most poplar street snacks

On any normal evening in India, in the bustling markets and noisy main streets of big cities and small towns alike, there is a familiar sight: the corner pani puri wala (seller), surrounded by a gaggle of eager customers.

His hands seem to fly as they dip the puris (fried discs of dough) into various bowls of fillings and chutneys and passes them out to people waiting impatiently. The vendor’s customer base stretches across age groups and social strata, with people stepping out of plush cars or families walking over from their homes. For the love of pani puri, and indeed of all chaat (fried snacks), unites Indians in a way few other things do.

Chaat is a catchall word – from chaatna, meaning “to lick” – that covers a wide range of street snacks, where different ingredients are usually tossed together to create a sucker punch of tastes and textures. India loves these small, satisfying snacks because they fill the perfect hunger moment, that is to say early evening, when lunch is a distant memory and dinner has yet to be cooked. And of all chaat, pani puri occupies a special place in Indian hearts and stomachs.

At first glance, pani puri seems like nothing special. The word itself is a combination of pani (water, which in this case, refers to the diluted chutneys) and puri (the fried discs of dough). The crisp, thin puri, which is about the size of a circle made by your forefinger touching your thumb, puffs up upon frying to create a hollow core.

However, eating a pani puri requires much attention and no small amount of skill: poke a hole on the surface of the puri with your forefinger, load it up with your chosen filling – such as mashed potato, healthy sprouts, finely chopped onions or mushy peas – and then dunk the whole thing into sweet-and-sour tamarind and spicy green chutney waters (both often kept iced) in quick succession. Finally, pop the whole package into your mouth and wait for the explosion of flavours, as the puri – ever so slightly soggy by then – crumbles inside your mouth with the sauces flowing out, all while filling the soul and clearing the sinuses at the same time.

Indeed, to eat pani puri is to be prepared for liquid dribbling down the sides of your mouth and tears streaming out of your eyes – an experience that is far more pleasurable than it might sound.

For those few moments, everything feels alright

It is no wonder that the pani puri is one of the street snacks that many indians love. Many home cooks have taken to recreating some of the magic at home, partly to satisfy chaat pangs and partly to feel the freedom of being able to walk the streets again

As education advisor Meeta Sengupta from Delhi exclaimed over email, “Pani puri is pure fun! Pop, crackle, gulp and gasp.”

Mumbai journalist Karishma Upadhya explained, “I think my craving came from a place of wanting something that made us feel happy and ‘normal’. When everything around is in such flux, it’s reassuring when you taste something that your mouth and mind instinctively know. When you put that pani puri in your mouth, you know you’ll get the perfect mix of cold, spicy, tart, sweet and crunchy. And, for those few moments, everything feels alright.”

While some brave cooks such as food blogger Amrita Kaur are making puri from scratch by kneading the dough to a perfect tight consistency, rolling out dozens of small discs, frying them in batches and preparing the fillings – most have used store-bought puris, purchasing them during careful grocery runs or utilising their pantry stocks.

There are many stories about the origins of pani puri. Culinary anthropologist Dr Kurush Dalal says that chaat (likely a predecessor of the modern pani puri) was first created in what is now the northern Indian region of Uttar Pradesh around the time of Emperor Shah Jahan’s rule in the late 17th Century. According to Dalal, royal doctors advised the general population to consume more fried and spicy snacks (and yoghurt) to balance the alkaline quality of the water from the Yamuna River, on the banks of which his new capital, Old Delhi, was built. The puri, which was to serve as “bite-sized containers of the chaat masala” (with fillings such as potato mash), spread to the rest of the country through migrant workers who moved to large cities like Mumbai and Delhi in the last century.

Like the most sublime chaats, pani puri is best enjoyed on the streets. And while upscale restaurants have started serving it in the last few years – with modern twists such as replacing the chutneys with spiced vodka shots and, shudder, guacamole fillings – their offerings rarely hit the spot. This is partly because street vendors know the palate of their customers and tailor each pani puri order accordingly – “Only the sweet-and-sour tamarind chutney”, “No sprouts please”, “Pile on the spice” – and each claims to have their own secret mixes of fillings and flavourings.

Food writer Anubhuti Krishna, who hails from Uttar Pradesh, loves pani puri but has not attempted to make it at home because, as she says, “I know I cannot replicate my favourite flavours at home, and they are sacrosanct for us UPwalas [people from Uttar Pradesh].”

Another reason could be that pani puri is best (or perhaps only) eaten by hand; there is no room for forks or finesse here. Kalyan Karmakar, culinary consultant and author of The Travelling Belly, a book on Indian street foods, describes eating pani puri as a “foodie adventure sport”, adding that “restaurants cannot recreate the thrill of standing on the pavement, unperturbed by people jostling past. Your eyes are focused on the pani puri wala. You have to be ready to pop it in [your mouth] when your turn comes.”

And even though pani puri is a perennial favourite across the country, it is by no means standardised or even similar everywhere. In fact, the name itself differs by place: pani puri is a Mumbai term, whereas in Delhi it is known as golgappa. In Kolkata, it goes by the name of puchka, and in Uttar Pradesh, it’s pani ke patashe (or batashe). The difference comes from the puri base ingredient – semolina, whole wheat or refined flour – as well as the fillings. And like with politics and cricket leagues, Indians like to argue about which kind is the best, and in each town, which pani puri wala makes it the most chatpata (lip-smacking).

Sengupta, who uses a ready-to-fry puri (a recent innovation found in stores), told me about her own Bengali-Punjabi household where the pani is “gingery sweet, with loads of hing (asafoetida) and pudina (mint)” and with “layered textures”. And Krishna, while noting that such food fights are silly, also adds that the Lucknow variety is her preferred version “because of how the softness and blandness of the matar (mashed peas) contrasts with the spicy water and the crisp and khasta (flaky) batasha.”

“It is [an] explosion in the mouth, yet it is soul food,” Sengupta said wistfully, perhaps summing up what millions of us Indians think of pani puri. – BBC

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Life style

India’s Republic Day

Published

6 days ago

2026/02/1

Thilina Walpola

Cultural perfomances showcasing tradition and talent

India’s Republic Day was celebrated in a spirit of unity and pride, as guests gathered to mark India’s democratic journey and its enduring commitment to freedom, diversity and progress.

India House came alive in hues of saffron, white and green as the 77th Republic Day of India was celebrated with stately elegance and heartfelt pride Set against the manicure lawns of the High Commissioner’s official residence, the annual ceremony unfolded as a graceful reminder of India’s enduring democratic spirit and its close time honoured ties with Sri Lanka.

Ambassador Santosh Jha with wife and Chief Guest Dr Nalinda Jayatissa

The morning ceremony commenced with the ceremonial unfurling of the Indian Tricolour. As the anthem echoed across the grounds, dignitaries, diplomats and members of the Indian Community stood united reflective on the ideals enshrined in the constitution of India, Justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. Adding cultural depths to the occasion was patriotic and classical performances thoughtfully curated to reflect India’s rich artistic heritage.

The evening reception had invited guests, diplomats, members of Parliament and many other distinguished guests. From traditional silk saris and sherwanis to chic evening gowns and tailored suits embodying a seamless blend of culture and continue.

The reception also offered a taste of India’s culinary artistry, with meticulously curated cuisine by Taj Samudra Colombo reflecting regional flavours with a modern twist.

Among the distinguished guests were the Prime Minister, Former Presidents, Ambassadors whose presence underscored the evening diplomatic and cultural significance.

The Tricolour rises, echoing the ideals of the Republic

“A day of pride and patriotism”- Ambassador’s words resonate on Republic Day

The chief guests was the Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa. The evening reach a memorable cresendo as the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka and Maldives delivered a speech emphasising India’s journey, its democratic value and its role on the global stage. He also spoke about the close ties between India and Sri Lanka, cultural exchanges and growing economic and strategic partnerships, reinforcing the special friendship between the two nations.

Pix by Thushara Attapathu

By Zanita Careem

Life style

Once a Heartian always a Heartian: Celebrating 130 glorious years

Published

6 days ago

2026/02/1

Thilina Walpola

A legacy begun by Belgian nuns, carried forward by generations of proud Heartians

This year, Sacred Heart Convent Galle celebrated 130 years of excellence, and the occasion was nothing short of spectacular. Alumnae, fondly called the old girls, walked the corridors of memory, reliving the elegance, discipline and camaraderie that shaped their youth. Founded by visionary Belgian nuns over a century ago, Sacred Heart Convent began with a clear mission of nurturing not only intellect, but also character, compassion and confidence. Today it stands as a timeless symbol of holistic education, blending its rich heritage with a modern vision.

There’s a magic in returning to the place where your story began – the echo of footsteps in old halls, the chatter of friends, the quiet thrill before assembly and the sense of belonging that never fades. This year as Sacred Heart Convent Galle celebrates 130 years of excellence. I found myself walking through memories that shaped not only my education but my outlook in life.

Founded over a century age by dedicated Belgian nuns, Sacred Heart Convent began as a humble institution with a bold vision to nurture intellect, character and compassion in equal measure. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Galle, with its charm and timeless beauty, the Convent became more than a place of learning, it was a sanctuary of discipline, creativity and grace.

My earliest memories of the school are vivid. I remember the feel of my uniform on the first day, the nervous excitement, as we walked into classrooms that I will always remember Sister Adrian’s warmth, guidance and encouragement . Her presence made every lesson meaningful and every Heartian feel truly cared for.

Galle itself added a special charm to the celebrations. The gentle sea breeze, the sunlit ramparts and the serene landscape created a perfect backdrop for a day filled with memories and nostalgia.

The 130 years of celebrations were a tribute to this legacy – an ode to the school’s enduring influence and the generations it has inspired.

The familiar bell at Sacred Heart Convent rang with a deeper resonance this year, calling together generations bound by faith, discipline and shared memory. As the institution marked 130 years of distinguished service in education, the celebrations unfolded not merely as an anniversary, but as a heart felt homecoming- a return to corridors where values were shaped and lifelong friendships were born. The alumnae returned in style, sharing laughter and stories of classroom adventures, chapel recitals and play ground friendships.

130 years strong-Sacred Heart Convent stands a beacon of values,discipline and life long learning

Old girls, present students and teachers unite to honour 130 years of pride

The highlights of the event this year was made memorable by a much loved Back to School theme that turned time gently backwards, Old girls arrived dressed in thier school day best, laughter filling the quadrangle as familiar bells , laughter, memories marked the back to school scene .

At the heart of the foundation of the school was Sister Adrian ,the devoted Belgian nun who served as principal, she had vision, discipline and unwavering dedication that was the the cornerstone of Sacred Heart’s legacy. Generations of students carry forward her values and spirit she instilled over a century ago.

I found myself reminiscing about my own journey within its storied walls – the classrooms, the assemblies, the playground games and shared seats with friends that still bring a smile today. I remember the guidance of teachers who inspired curiosity and the gentle discipline of mentors who shaped our values.

The ‘Back to School’ feeling during the 130th celebrations was magical seeing Alumnae return, glowing with nostalgia reminded me how the spirit of Sacred Heart stay with us and remains etched in our hearts.

As the celebrations came to a close, I felt a profound gratitude for the school, for the Belgian nuns who laid its foundation For the present Principal Sister Sandya Fernando and Sister Mihiri Perera, Deputy Principal and Head of the Primary School and the teachers who carry forward this century old tradition with dedication and warmth. Their commitment to keeping the school’s spirit vibrant, bridging the gap between the history and the present. From Sister Adrian’s vision to the care of today’s dedicated sisters, Sacred Heart Convent has spent 130 shaping minds, nurturing values and inspiring generations.

For me, Sacred Heart Convent was never merely a place of learning; it was a canvas, a stage and a sanctuary, a place that taught me education is as much character as it is about knowledge.

As the school celebrated 130 glorious years, we salute Sister Adrian, and the visionary leadership of the current principal and Vice principle Thier dedication have shaped generations of Heartians, instilling values, courage and compassion For me this celebrations stirred cherished memories and a reminder that the heart of Sacred Heart beats strong, carrying its legacy forward with pride and love

By Zanita Careem

Life style

Fathuma Marleen on style, strength and grace

Published

6 days ago

2026/02/1

Thilina Walpola

Chic and modest

Threads of influence

From the buzz of a busy salon chair to the delicate precision of couture hand work, Fathuma Marleen carved a space where style,skill and sophistication intertwine.

Her signature lies in the subtle artistry of her embroidery and handwork. Every stitch, every embellishments reflect a dedication to precision and an eye for detail cultivated from her earliest days A guiding force for women she touches human lives with generosity,empathy and unwavering commitment

Fathuma Marleen’s story begins not on a runway,but behind a salon chair,scissors in hand,hair falling softly to the floor,and dreams quietly taking shape .As a young hairdresser,trained by Janet Balasuriya , she learned early the art of transformation:how confidence blooms when a woman feels seen,styled and celebrated. That intimate understanding of beauty,personal,emotional and deeply human later became the backbone of her creative journey.

Marleen lawyer turned Ambassador

But her creative spirit couldn’t be confined to hair alone In a world driven by fast fashion and fleeting trends,Fathuma Marleen’s work caught the attention of established names in the couture world. Driven by an eye for fashion, she transitioned into stitching, turn ing fabric into statements of sophistication and glamour.She went on to sew for top designers and Colombo’s fashion conscious women, contributing behind the scenes to collections that demanded excellence, consistency and technical mastery. Though her role was discreet, her impact was unmistakable among the landscape of fashion,each of her designer clothing had her signature precision. Her signature touch soon became popular among top designers ,whether it’s a flowing gown, or an Indian Shalwar or a flowing abaya, her intricate,embroidery or her sleek cut had a story . Yet at the height of her creative journey, Marleen made a personal sacrifice,she moved away from her burgeoning fashion career to join her husband in his ambassadorial role to Riyadh.

A defining chapter in Fathuma Marleen’s professional journey has been her close alliance with the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry WCIS, a platform that champions entrepreneurship, creativity and leadership among women. It was Nayana Karunaratne,her close friend with whom she co-created spectacular fashion shows stood firmly by her side encouraging,guiding and gently nudging her back towards her creative calling.

Her work gained particular prominence under the guidance and encouragement of Nayana, this partnership proved transformative, and Fathuma Marleen designs stepped into the spot

Notably her creations featured at the Chamber of Commerce, fashion show led initiatives, including high profile Abaya presentation showcased at the Hilton, which left the audiences mesmerised. Her creations unveiled marked a defining movement in her journey. Modern silhouettes,rich hues and intricate embroidery,

clear lines, thoughtful detailing, appealed to modern woman who values both tradition and contemporary style. The collection resonated strongly with the audience. This show was a celebration of Marleen’s return to the spotlight The Hilton shows stood as a turning point-proof that Marleen’s design journey had depth,direction and a story still unfolding.

When her husband’s diplomatic posting took the family to Riyadh. Fathuma Marleen embraced a new chapter, one that required poise, adaptability and cultural awareness.

As an Ambassador’s wife she navigated formal responsibilities with elegance, balancing public engagements, all while maintaining her creative pursuits but limited due to new responsibilities ,yet she remained a quiet force in style and women’s empowerment,balancing diplomacy and creativity

Through it all, she remained committed to family. Her three daughters each now accomplished doctors and son Banker in the US were nurtured in an environment of discipline.

She says ‘ my family remains my cornerstone a source of pride and inspiration’. She cherishes her children and grandchildren, who continue to inspire her with thier own passions and achievements Beyond fashion, she is a dedicated social worker and champion of women,turning every endeavour into a celebration of creativity,sophistication and style. Beyond glamour, Fathuma is a woman driven by compassion. She devotes herself to running an orphanage established by her husband,carrying forward his vision and touching countless lives.