THE STORY OF PAAN

Throughout ancient to modern times, betel leaf has symbolized hospitality, friendship, celebration, and cultural identity in India, continuing to be an enduring tradition cherished by many.

Betel Leaf or Paan has a history that dates back to more than 5000 years in India. Paan finds mention in many ancient texts. Paan has originated from the Sanskrit word 'Parna' which means 'leaf'. Paan (betel leaf) has a significant role in India. It has found new meaning the popular cultures with songs like, 'Khaike Paan Banaras Wala', In eastern countries also paan has entwined the culture and convention of the people. It has a heart-shaped, simple, exstipulate leaf light green to deep green in colour with five to seven dorsally well-marked vein.

Paan originally means betel leaf (in modern writing and usage paan refers to both betel nut and betel leaf). The use of paan reflects civility, hospitality, a convention, a habit, an innocent after-meal, breath-sweetening practice. The habit of after-meal use of paan or a piece of nut is the most common practice that comes across in India.

The ancient Hindu compendium of religious texts, Skanda Purana, which dates back to the sixth century, has references to paan. According to the Skanda Purana, In the story of Samudra Manthan, the churning of the ocean by Gods and Demons in search of Amrit, the nectar of immortality, the betel leaf was one of the many celestial objects that were discovered.