Growing up in Maharashtra, Shruti Railkar remembers drinking solkadhi every summer during her vacations which she used to spend in Chaul, her native place that is situated off Alibaug in the western state of India. She reminisces, “We used to have solkadhi with lunch daily. My grandmother made it every time, we visited her there.” Today, every time somebody speaks about solkadhi, the classic summer drink enjoyed in Maharashtra, particularly during the summers but also throughout the year, it evokes nostalgia for the Mumbaikar. So, what makes this pink-hued drink unique and why do Maharashtrians love it so much?

Every year, Maharashtra Day is observed on May 1 to commemorate the formation of the state of Maharashtra, upon its separation of the Bombay state on May 1, 1960. While we celebrate the formation of state, the food and culture have always been an integral part of its uniqueness. Among the many aspects, the cuisine is absolutely delicious because of the varied specialities. However, if one had to pick up one aspect that needs to be celebrated, it has to be solkadhi, a drink that not only corresponds with the day but also summer season.

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