Do Indian Hindus Drink Rooh Afza?

Rooh Afza, a unique yet controversial drink in some circles, is a popular choice among many Indians, regardless of their religion. While some may find it an acquired taste, it holds a special place in the cultural and culinary traditions of India. Many Indians, including those who identify as Hindu, enjoy Rooh Afza for its refreshing and medicinal qualities.

My Personal Experience and Cultural Context

I, too, am an Indian, a Dharmi, not a Hindu in the traditional sense, as I hail from Tamil Nadu (TN) with a long line of ancestry rooted in this region. My experience with Rooh Afza is personal and cultural. Unlike some, I simply hate it, and it's an acquired taste, similar to how some may feel towards dates. This drink has a bitter, grassy aftertaste from Khus, a natural ingredient that adds to its distinct flavor. Muslims have a sentimental attachment to Rooh Afza, often introduced to it from a young age. However, those who cannot appreciate it are often teased or harshly criticized, a cultural practice I find overly harsh.

The Misperception and Reality

The question, 'Do Indian Hindus drink Rooh Afza?' is misleading and shows a lack of understanding. Rooh Afza is loved by everyone, irrespective of religion, caste, creed, or any other societal divide. This refreshing squash drink is a blend of herbs, citrus fruits, vegetables, and rose petals, and it's consumed by people across all religions. I do not view Rooh Afza as a religious drink. It's a confectionary that happens to have roots in a Muslim tradition, but its universal appeal transcends religious boundaries.

Rooh Afza: A Summer Drink for All

Rooh Afza was originally formulated by an Unani medicine physician in early 1900s British India as a summer tonic. It was designed to help people cool down and refresh their bodies during the scorching summer months. It was never intended to be a religious beverage, used exclusively during fasting times or religious ceremonies. The brand has since embraced a broader audience, even having an Indian film actress, Juhi Chawla, as its brand ambassador, signaling its acceptance and popularity among all demographics.

Community and Cultural Integration

Today, Rooh Afza is widely enjoyed in regions like Chandigarh, a multicultural city where people of different religions mix freely. Often, during summer months, free water with Rooh Afza is provided to travelers and passersby. This is a testament to the drink's non-religious and universally appealing nature. The image below shows such an instance, where people freely give water mixed with Rooh Afza to travelers:

This practice highlights how Rooh Afza is not just a drink but a symbol of community and cultural integration, enjoyed by people of all religions and backgrounds, purely for its refreshing and tasty qualities.