SAFFRON INTEGRAL TO INDIAN CULTURE

It is believed that saffron first arrived in India in the 11th or 12th century AD, when two foreign and itinerant Sufiascetics, Khwaja Masood Wali and Hazrat Sheikh Shariffudin, wandered into Kashmir

The history of Indian saffron is a saga of resilience, tradition, and innovation. From its ancient origins to its modern-day significance, saffron has woven itself into the fabric of Indian culture and cuisine. As it continues to thrive amidst challenges, Indian saffron stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a spice that has captivated hearts and tantalized taste buds from ancient times to the modern era.

Today, we will provide of insights on the history of the saffron and its contemporary significance. The story of Indian saffron traces back to ancient times when the spice found its way to the Indian subcontinent from its place of origin in Persia (modern-day Iran). References to saffron can be found in ancient Indian texts such as the Vedas, where it was revered for its medicinal properties and used in religious rituals. Its journey into the heart of Indian culture had begun.

ANCIENT ROOTS

An Indian Buddhist missionary by the name of Madhyântika (or Majjhantika) was sent to Kashmir in the 5th century BC. Upon his arrival he seemingly sowed the first Kashmiri saffron crop. From there, saffron use spread throughout the Indian subcontinent. In addition to use in foods, saffron stigmas were also soaked in water to yield a golden-yellow solution that was used as a fabric dye.

Some historians believe that saffron first came to China with Mongol invaders by way of Persia. Saffron is mentioned in the ancient Chinese medical text Shennong Ben Cao Jing, believed to be from the 3rd century AD (but attributed to mythological emperor Shennong). Yet the Chinese were referring to saffron as having a Kashmiri provenance. The Chinese medical expert Wan Zhen wrote that "The habitat of saffron is in Kashmir, where people grow it principally to offer it to the Buddha".

Wan reflected on how saffron was used in his time: "The [saffron crocus] flower withers after a few days, and then the saffron is obtained.