Under adverse circumstances, here are some essential foods that just might come in handy for you. They include  rice, lentils, grains ,honey, canned foods, milk powder and dry pasta. Life & Fun | Lifestyle | Photos 

8 foods that could save your life if food supply chain goes down

Written by&nbsp;Yusuf Galabhaiwala

In recent years, honey has garnered attention for its potential health benefits and culinary versatility. From natural sweetener to home remedy, this golden elixir has been hailed for its supposed healing properties. However, myths and misconceptions often cloud the truth amidst the buzz surrounding honey. Let's explore more into the world of honey, separating fact from fiction to uncover its true impact on health.

Understanding the Sweetness: 
 
Honey primarily consists of three types of sugar: glucose, fructose, and sucrose. While all three sugars contribute to honey's sweet taste, their metabolic effects differ.

Glucose: A simple sugar that provides immediate energy to the body, glucose is easily absorbed into the bloodstream. 
 
Fructose: Found naturally in fruits and honey, fructose has a lower glycemic index compared to glucose, meaning it has a slower impact on blood sugar levels. 
 
Sucrose: Comprising equal parts glucose and fructose, sucrose is metabolized differently in the body and can contribute to liver fat accumulation when consumed in excess. 
 
Impact on Liver Health: 
 
Excessive consumption of sucrose, commonly found in processed foods and sweetened beverages, has been linked to liver damage and fatty liver disease. Unlike glucose, which is readily utilized by cells for energy, excess fructose and sucrose are metabolized by the liver, leading to the accumulation of fat in liver cells. This can impair liver function over time and contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Common Myths About Honey 
 
1. Crystallized honey is spoiled honey (Myth)

 
Crystallization is a natural process that occurs when glucose in the honey forms crystals, causing it to become thicker and grainier in texture. Crystallized honey is perfectly safe to eat and can be easily liquefied by gently heating it in a warm water bath.

 
2. Honey is a great alternative to artificial sweeteners and table sugar (Fact) 
 
Unlike artificial sweeteners and refined sugar, honey contains trace amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. While it is still high in calories and should be consumed in moderation, honey can be a healthier alternative to processed sugars when used judiciously.

3. Darker honey or white “foam” means the honey has gone bad (Myth) 
 
The color or presence of foam in honey does not necessarily indicate spoilage. Darker hues can result from the types of flowers the bees gather nectar from, while foam may be caused by air bubbles trapped during processing. As long as honey is stored properly in a sealed container at room temperature, it does not spoil.

4. Honey is gluten-free (Fact)

Honey, being a natural product derived from flower nectar, does not contain gluten and is safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

5. It’s dangerous to use metal spoons with honey (Myth) 
 
Using metal spoons with honey is not dangerous. While some sources claim that metal utensils can cause honey to oxidize and affect its flavor, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. It is safe to use any type of utensil with honey. 
 
6. Honey never goes bad (Fact) 
 
Due to its low moisture content and acidic pH, honey has an indefinite shelf life if stored properly. Archaeologists have even discovered honey pots in ancient Egyptian tombs that are thousands of years old and still perfectly edible.

(The author is founder of Honey All Day)

Written by Yusuf Galabhaiwala In recent years, honey has garnered attention for its potential health benefits and culinary versatility. From natural sweetener to home remedy, this golden elixir has been hailed for its supposed healing properties.

Written by Yusuf Galabhaiwala In recent years, honey has garnered attention for its potential health benefits and culinary versatility. From natural sweetener to home remedy, this golden elixir has been hailed for its supposed healing properties. However, myths and misconceptions often cloud the truth amidst the buzz surrounding honey. Let's explore more into the world of honey, separating fact from fiction to uncover its true impact on health. Understanding the Sweetness: Honey primarily consists of three types of sugar: glucose, fructose, and sucrose. While all three sugars contribute to honey's sweet taste, their metabolic effects differ. Glucose: A simple sugar that provides immediate energy to the body, glucose is easily absorbed into the bloodstream. Fructose: Found naturally in fruits and honey, fructose has a lower glycemic index compared to glucose, meaning it has a slower impact on blood sugar levels. Sucrose: Comprising equal parts glucose and fructose, sucrose is metabolized differently in the body and can contribute to liver fat accumulation when consumed in excess. Impact on Liver Health: Excessive consumption of sucrose, commonly found in processed foods and sweetened beverages, has been linked to liver damage and fatty liver disease. Unlike glucose, which is readily utilized by cells for energy, excess fructose and sucrose are metabolized by the liver, leading to the accumulation of fat in liver cells. This can impair liver function over time and contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Common Myths About Honey 1. Crystallized honey is spoiled honey (Myth) Crystallization is a natural process that occurs when glucose in the honey forms crystals, causing it to become thicker and grainier in texture. Crystallized honey is perfectly safe to eat and can be easily liquefied by gently heating it in a warm water bath. 2. Honey is a great alternative to artificial sweeteners and table sugar (Fact) Unlike artificial sweeteners and refined sugar, honey contains trace amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. While it is still high in calories and should be consumed in moderation, honey can be a healthier alternative to processed sugars when used judiciously. 3. Darker honey or white “foam” means the honey has gone bad (Myth) The color or presence of foam in honey does not necessarily indicate spoilage. Darker hues can result from the types of flowers the bees gather nectar from, while foam may be caused by air bubbles trapped during processing. As long as honey is stored properly in a sealed container at room temperature, it does not spoil. 4. Honey is gluten-free (Fact) Honey, being a natural product derived from flower nectar, does not contain gluten and is safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. 5. It’s dangerous to use metal spoons with honey (Myth) Using metal spoons with honey is not dangerous. While some sources claim that metal utensils can cause honey to oxidize and affect its flavor, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. It is safe to use any type of utensil with honey. 6. Honey never goes bad (Fact) Due to its low moisture content and acidic pH, honey has an indefinite shelf life if stored properly. Archaeologists have even discovered honey pots in ancient Egyptian tombs that are thousands of years old and still perfectly edible. (The author is founder of Honey All Day)

Honey and your health: Unveiling the myths and facts

Bee keepers in Kenya are turning away from honey and harvesting venom instead. There is a lucrative market for the substance which is popular in alternative medicine. Watch to know more!

Honey swapped for more lucrative Bee venom

By Yusuf Galabhaiwala

For centuries, honey has been cherished not only for its sweet taste but also for its medicinal properties. Rooted in ancient remedies and described in Ayurveda as 'Madhu', honey has stood the test of time as a versatile elixir.&nbsp; 
 
Ayurveda categorizes individuals into different constitutional types or doshas, namely 'Vata', 'Pitta', and 'Kapha'. Honey is considered unique in its ability to balance all three doshas when used appropriately. It is believed to harmonize the body's energies and promote overall well-being. 
 
As winter envelops us in its chilly embrace, let's explore how this golden nectar, as celebrated in ancient traditions, becomes our ally in staying healthy and warm during the cold season.

1. Immunity Boost: 
 
Winter often brings a parade of sniffles and sneezes. Honey has antioxidant, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties that can fight the virus and help treat the symptoms.&nbsp; 
 
A spoonful a day can keep the winter blues away by supporting our body's natural defences.

2. Sore throat &amp; cough:&nbsp; 
 
In the frost and chilly air, our throats may feel scratchy and irritated. Enter honey, the time-tested remedy for sore throats. Honey helps in decreasing the inflammation &amp; irritation in the throat. Another study also found that honey may also reduce mucus secretion, hence helping in wet &amp; dry cough.&nbsp; 
 
Mixed in warm water or herbal teas, it brings relief and a touch of sweetness to comfort winter-weary throats.

3. Natural Energy: 
 
Winter's chill sometimes brings a dip in energy levels, hence making us feel lazy and lethargic.&nbsp; 
 
Instead of going for foods that are filled with sugar why not prefer honey which is a natural source of energy?&nbsp; 
 
A drizzle on your morning toast or a light stir into your tea can provide a gentle and sustained boost to power you through the day.

4. Dry Skin Relief: 
 
Cold winds can leave our skin parched. When applied to the skin, it draws moisture from the air and binds it to the skin, keeping it hydrated. The sticky texture of honey creates a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss. This helps to lock in hydration and keep the skin supple. 
 
Antioxidants in honey also combat free radicals that contribute to dry and aging skin.

How to Use Honey for Dry Skin:

- Honey and Aloe Vera:&nbsp; 
 
Mix honey with aloe vera gel for added soothing and moisturizing benefits. Apply the mixture to the skin and rinse off after 15-20 minutes.

- Honey and Yogurt:&nbsp; 
 
Combine honey with plain yogurt for a hydrating mask. Yogurt adds an extra dose of moisture and helps in exfoliation. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing.

When using honey for skin care, choosing raw honey for maximum benefits is essential. Always perform a patch test to ensure you don't have any allergic reactions, and consult with a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns.

5. Sleep Aid:

As the nights grow longer, quality sleep becomes even more precious. A warm glass of milk with honey before bedtime is a timeless ritual to promote a restful night's sleep.&nbsp;

So incorporate this golden nectar into your daily rituals – whether it's a spoonful in the morning, a soothing cup of honey-infused tea, or a comforting honey mask for your skin &amp; stay away from winter blues!

(The author is the founder of the brand&nbsp;Honey All Day)&nbsp;

By Yusuf Galabhaiwala For centuries, honey has been cherished not only for its sweet taste but also for its medicinal properties. Rooted in ancient remedies and described in Ayurveda as 'Madhu', honey has stood the test of time as a versatile elixir.

By Yusuf Galabhaiwala For centuries, honey has been cherished not only for its sweet taste but also for its medicinal properties. Rooted in ancient remedies and described in Ayurveda as 'Madhu', honey has stood the test of time as a versatile elixir. Ayurveda categorizes individuals into different constitutional types or doshas, namely 'Vata', 'Pitta', and 'Kapha'. Honey is considered unique in its ability to balance all three doshas when used appropriately. It is believed to harmonize the body's energies and promote overall well-being. As winter envelops us in its chilly embrace, let's explore how this golden nectar, as celebrated in ancient traditions, becomes our ally in staying healthy and warm during the cold season. 1. Immunity Boost: Winter often brings a parade of sniffles and sneezes. Honey has antioxidant, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties that can fight the virus and help treat the symptoms. A spoonful a day can keep the winter blues away by supporting our body's natural defences. 2. Sore throat & cough: In the frost and chilly air, our throats may feel scratchy and irritated. Enter honey, the time-tested remedy for sore throats. Honey helps in decreasing the inflammation & irritation in the throat. Another study also found that honey may also reduce mucus secretion, hence helping in wet & dry cough. Mixed in warm water or herbal teas, it brings relief and a touch of sweetness to comfort winter-weary throats. 3. Natural Energy: Winter's chill sometimes brings a dip in energy levels, hence making us feel lazy and lethargic. Instead of going for foods that are filled with sugar why not prefer honey which is a natural source of energy? A drizzle on your morning toast or a light stir into your tea can provide a gentle and sustained boost to power you through the day. 4. Dry Skin Relief: Cold winds can leave our skin parched. When applied to the skin, it draws moisture from the air and binds it to the skin, keeping it hydrated. The sticky texture of honey creates a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss. This helps to lock in hydration and keep the skin supple. Antioxidants in honey also combat free radicals that contribute to dry and aging skin. How to Use Honey for Dry Skin: - Honey and Aloe Vera: Mix honey with aloe vera gel for added soothing and moisturizing benefits. Apply the mixture to the skin and rinse off after 15-20 minutes. - Honey and Yogurt: Combine honey with plain yogurt for a hydrating mask. Yogurt adds an extra dose of moisture and helps in exfoliation. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing. When using honey for skin care, choosing raw honey for maximum benefits is essential. Always perform a patch test to ensure you don't have any allergic reactions, and consult with a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns. 5. Sleep Aid: As the nights grow longer, quality sleep becomes even more precious. A warm glass of milk with honey before bedtime is a timeless ritual to promote a restful night's sleep. So incorporate this golden nectar into your daily rituals – whether it's a spoonful in the morning, a soothing cup of honey-infused tea, or a comforting honey mask for your skin & stay away from winter blues! (The author is the founder of the brand Honey All Day)

Why is honey a must-have for you this winter?

War-torn yemen is facing the devastating impacts of climate change, and recently, even its precious commodity, honey, is being severely affected

Yemen’s honey production takes a hit

In a bid to seek safety for honey bees in the urban jungle and to conserve them, Biologists are studying new ways.

Seeking safety for bees in the urban jungle: Biologists study ways to conserve bees

The bees are tiny insects but they play a big role in keeping the balance in the ecosystem. However, excessive use of pesticides have now put them under threat, our next sport gets you all the details.

Bee population has collapsed in 30 years, deforestation and urbanisation key threats

Humans have a huge footprint on this planet and this doesn't always mean a good thing. The footprint may be in form of carbon emissions or&nbsp;climate change. Human activities have often harmed nature. But human activities have adverse impact on humans as well.

A radioactive element has been found in honey samples collected in the US. The study has been carried out by researchers from William and Mary University in the US.

But why is there a radioactive element in honey?

The nuclear tests carried out in the US in 1950s and 60s are to blame. Nuclear bombs contain Uranium and when the bomb explodes, it produces radioactive Cesium.

Cesium atom is similar to Potassium atom and Potassium is a very important nutrient for plants. When Potassium is available in the soil, plants absorb it. But if soil is deficient in Potassium, there is a likelihood that the radioactive Cesium atoms may be absorbed by the plants, explain the researchers.

Cesium then passes into the nectar of the plant's flowers which in turn is converted to honey by the honeybees.

As per the researchers, the Cesium levels in the honey were not found to be high enough to cause extreme danger to human life. But this study is yet another reminder of the need to take care of our only home in the universe. Our Planet Earth.

The study has been published in the scientific journal Nature Communications.

Humans have a huge footprint on this planet and this doesn't always mean a good thing. The footprint may be in form of carbon emissions or climate change. Human activities have often harmed nature.

Humans have a huge footprint on this planet and this doesn't always mean a good thing. The footprint may be in form of carbon emissions or climate change. Human activities have often harmed nature. But human activities have adverse impact on humans as well. A radioactive element has been found in honey samples collected in the US. The study has been carried out by researchers from William and Mary University in the US. But why is there a radioactive element in honey? The nuclear tests carried out in the US in 1950s and 60s are to blame. Nuclear bombs contain Uranium and when the bomb explodes, it produces radioactive Cesium. Cesium atom is similar to Potassium atom and Potassium is a very important nutrient for plants. When Potassium is available in the soil, plants absorb it. But if soil is deficient in Potassium, there is a likelihood that the radioactive Cesium atoms may be absorbed by the plants, explain the researchers. Cesium then passes into the nectar of the plant's flowers which in turn is converted to honey by the honeybees. As per the researchers, the Cesium levels in the honey were not found to be high enough to cause extreme danger to human life. But this study is yet another reminder of the need to take care of our only home in the universe. Our Planet Earth. The study has been published in the scientific journal Nature Communications.

American honey samples found to contain radioactive element: Study

Sometimes there is a snake in the cavity with the beehive. But that is okay. &ldquo;The honeybees will not allow you to take honey while the snake is inside [so as to protect the person], but anyhow the snake will move aside,&rdquo; says Kathe Kuttan of Bikkapathimund village. Then the honey gatherer can reach in with his hand to bring out the delicious golden comb. &nbsp;&ldquo;The snake,&rdquo; says Kathe, &ldquo;gives a &lsquo;promise&rsquo; to the honeybee &ndash; I will not bite anyone who comes here to honey hunt.&rdquo;

That is, of course, if the honey hunter has come with purity of heart and body. Otherwise, it might be a different story.

Like Kathe, Thilthosh Kuttan too is a honey gatherer of the Toda tribe in Bikkapathimund &ndash; a village of around 35 Todas. With his son, he is walking with us through the remnants of the shola forest adjacent to the grasslands on which the community&rsquo;s buffaloes roam. The Todas are Adivasis who live in the Nilgiri hills of Tamil Nadu. They are pastoralists who demonstrate their respect for nature by practising a strictly vegetarian diet. And they walk barefoot as a mark of their regard for the spirits of the Earth.

After crossing a small brook and climbing up a slope, Thilthosh points to a small, almost unnoticeable cavity in one of the larger trees. Melon-sized rock blocks most of the entrance and swarms of bees are flying around it. These are the Asian Honey Bee (Apis cerana), found across Asia. They are considered among the easiest species to domesticate and hive in bee boxes.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/pari%202-20171106112147.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
Left: A hive of the Apis cerana bees. Right: A honey hunter removes the stone that blocks the cavity before he extracts the sweet golden comb. (Others)
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

But the Todas prefer to leave the bees in their natural habitat. Unlike some of the other honey gathering Adivasis of the Nilgiris, the Todas don&rsquo;t use fire or smoke to draw out the bees when collecting wild honey. When he finds a hive, the hunter will place a stone at the opening of the hive to keep away the bears that roam these hills. When he is ready to take out the honey, the hunter will remove the stone, put his face close to the cavity and blow softly. This pushes the bees out gently and the hunter reaches in and pulls out the honey from the multi-combed hive.

How does he not get stung? The Todas believe this is because the bees know if the person is pure of heart and body.

But young men (only Toda men collect honey) who are beginning to learn how to collect honey do sometimes get stung. Thilthosh says, &ldquo;They [the newcomers] will be afraid at first, but after being stung a few times it will be normal. Then they will not be afraid&rdquo;. &nbsp;Even as he is talking, his son, around 12, is stung by a bee. Thilthosh goes close to his son, investigates the area of the sting, and leaves it at that.

Earlier, Kathe Kuttan had narrated the story of a hunter who was bitten because &ldquo;he [hadn&rsquo;t] maintained the &lsquo;discipline&rsquo;.&rdquo; The community is not supposed to work on certain days like the day for the temple.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/pari%204-20171106112527.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
Kathe Kuttan fashioning bamboo strips that will be used to build a new temple in the village; even the Todas&#39; huts were once entirely constructed with forest materials, but now many live in houses built by the government. (Others)
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

As he speaks, sitting below a tree in his village, surrounded by rolling hills, Kathe meticulously strips and softens long strips of bamboo. Around him lie coiled ribbons of bamboo, shavings are scattered on the ground. Several other men are also fashioning the bamboo into malleable ropes, while some women sit close by, embroidering shawls with the intricate designs unique to the Todas. These bamboo strips will be used to construct a new temple.

Another villager, Ooneer Kuttan, &nbsp;recalls that when the kurinji flowers bloom abundantly, the bees make a special honey from its nectar. These flowers bloom only once in 12 years and when in season (usually, April to June) carpet the hills with a violet-blue &ndash; hence the name Nilgiris or the Blue Mountains. But, he rues, today, even in the kurinji season, the blooms are fewer. And so this variety of honey is now not easily available.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/pari%203-20171106112227.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
A senior villager, Ooneer Kuttan, draped in a traditional shawl with distinctive Toda embroidery. He speaks of how the bees make a special honey from the nectar of the blue kurinji flowers. (Others)
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Every year, Thilthosh Kuttan says, there seems to be less honey because the number of flowers is diminishing. Though he did not offer any reasons, this could be, we surmise, because of factors such as climate change and the conversion of the shola forests and grasslands in Tamil Nadu into farms.

The Todas collect the honey for use in their home, and for sharing with the village. Whatever is left over, they sell, though this is rare and only done when there is extra honey or if tourists visit the village. It is typically sold for Rs. 500 for a kilo.

For their living, the Toda community draws on the forest and remains highly self-reliant. Their main source of food is buffalo milk and the few crops they cultivate. Even their huts were once entirely constructed with forest materials, but now many live in houses built by the government. Honey is an additional food source. Some have gone outside the village for work, some stay back.

Thilthosh doesn&rsquo;t think the next generation will continue with honey gathering. But others are more hopeful. Kathe firmly believes that the youngsters will maintain this tradition and the connection to nature. Only time will tell which of them is right.

Thanks to the Keystone Foundation for giving me the support to conduct these interviews, and to Saravanan Rajan, who helped find the honey hunters and accompanied me to every interview as an interpreter.

This&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralindiaonline.org/articles/the-honey-hunters-of-the-hills" rel="nofollow" target="blank">article</a>&nbsp;was originally&nbsp;published on 26/ 06/ 2017 on the&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralindiaonline.org/" rel="nofollow" target="blank">People&#39;s Archive of Rural India.</a>

Photo Credit:&nbsp;Audra Bass and&nbsp;Keystone Foundation

Honey hunters of Toda tribe in Tamil Nadu, hope that the youngsters might maintain the tradition of honey gathering

Sometimes there is a snake in the cavity with the beehive. But that is okay. “The honeybees will not allow you to take honey while the snake is inside [so as to protect the person], but anyhow the snake will move aside,” says Kathe Kuttan of Bikkapathimund village. Then the honey gatherer can reach in with his hand to bring out the delicious golden comb. “The snake,” says Kathe, “gives a ‘promise’ to the honeybee – I will not bite anyone who comes here to honey hunt.” That is, of course, if the honey hunter has come with purity of heart and body. Otherwise, it might be a different story. Like Kathe, Thilthosh Kuttan too is a honey gatherer of the Toda tribe in Bikkapathimund – a village of around 35 Todas. With his son, he is walking with us through the remnants of the shola forest adjacent to the grasslands on which the community’s buffaloes roam. The Todas are Adivasis who live in the Nilgiri hills of Tamil Nadu. They are pastoralists who demonstrate their respect for nature by practising a strictly vegetarian diet. And they walk barefoot as a mark of their regard for the spirits of the Earth. After crossing a small brook and climbing up a slope, Thilthosh points to a small, almost unnoticeable cavity in one of the larger trees. Melon-sized rock blocks most of the entrance and swarms of bees are flying around it. These are the Asian Honey Bee (Apis cerana), found across Asia. They are considered among the easiest species to domesticate and hive in bee boxes. Left: A hive of the Apis cerana bees. Right: A honey hunter removes the stone that blocks the cavity before he extracts the sweet golden comb. (Others) × But the Todas prefer to leave the bees in their natural habitat. Unlike some of the other honey gathering Adivasis of the Nilgiris, the Todas don’t use fire or smoke to draw out the bees when collecting wild honey. When he finds a hive, the hunter will place a stone at the opening of the hive to keep away the bears that roam these hills. When he is ready to take out the honey, the hunter will remove the stone, put his face close to the cavity and blow softly. This pushes the bees out gently and the hunter reaches in and pulls out the honey from the multi-combed hive. How does he not get stung? The Todas believe this is because the bees know if the person is pure of heart and body. But young men (only Toda men collect honey) who are beginning to learn how to collect honey do sometimes get stung. Thilthosh says, “They [the newcomers] will be afraid at first, but after being stung a few times it will be normal. Then they will not be afraid”. Even as he is talking, his son, around 12, is stung by a bee. Thilthosh goes close to his son, investigates the area of the sting, and leaves it at that. Earlier, Kathe Kuttan had narrated the story of a hunter who was bitten because “he [hadn’t] maintained the ‘discipline’.” The community is not supposed to work on certain days like the day for the temple. Kathe Kuttan fashioning bamboo strips that will be used to build a new temple in the village; even the Todas' huts were once entirely constructed with forest materials, but now many live in houses built by the government. (Others) × As he speaks, sitting below a tree in his village, surrounded by rolling hills, Kathe meticulously strips and softens long strips of bamboo. Around him lie coiled ribbons of bamboo, shavings are scattered on the ground. Several other men are also fashioning the bamboo into malleable ropes, while some women sit close by, embroidering shawls with the intricate designs unique to the Todas. These bamboo strips will be used to construct a new temple. Another villager, Ooneer Kuttan, recalls that when the kurinji flowers bloom abundantly, the bees make a special honey from its nectar. These flowers bloom only once in 12 years and when in season (usually, April to June) carpet the hills with a violet-blue – hence the name Nilgiris or the Blue Mountains. But, he rues, today, even in the kurinji season, the blooms are fewer. And so this variety of honey is now not easily available. A senior villager, Ooneer Kuttan, draped in a traditional shawl with distinctive Toda embroidery. He speaks of how the bees make a special honey from the nectar of the blue kurinji flowers. (Others) × Every year, Thilthosh Kuttan says, there seems to be less honey because the number of flowers is diminishing. Though he did not offer any reasons, this could be, we surmise, because of factors such as climate change and the conversion of the shola forests and grasslands in Tamil Nadu into farms. The Todas collect the honey for use in their home, and for sharing with the village. Whatever is left over, they sell, though this is rare and only done when there is extra honey or if tourists visit the village. It is typically sold for Rs. 500 for a kilo. For their living, the Toda community draws on the forest and remains highly self-reliant. Their main source of food is buffalo milk and the few crops they cultivate. Even their huts were once entirely constructed with forest materials, but now many live in houses built by the government. Honey is an additional food source. Some have gone outside the village for work, some stay back. Thilthosh doesn’t think the next generation will continue with honey gathering. But others are more hopeful. Kathe firmly believes that the youngsters will maintain this tradition and the connection to nature. Only time will tell which of them is right. Thanks to the Keystone Foundation for giving me the support to conduct these interviews, and to Saravanan Rajan, who helped find the honey hunters and accompanied me to every interview as an interpreter. This article was originally published on 26/ 06/ 2017 on the People's Archive of Rural India. Photo Credit: Audra Bass and Keystone Foundation

The honey hunters of the hills

honey

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