Bhubaneswar: Bondas, the aboriginal tribe of Odisha, are known for their primitive ways, lightyears away from the touch of civilisation. They are also known for the famed country liquor called mahuli, made by them using simple methods of household cooking.

This liquor is basically a type of alcoholic beverage made from dried flower called mahula (scientific name: Madhuca indica), brewed in earthen pots in Bonda households. It is colourless in nature with strong alcohol content, and accompanied by the aroma of mahuli flowers.

We chanced upon a Facebook video that depicts the self-brewed liquor being made:

It is a common practice among Bondas to keep stock of this home-made drink after a long day of work. Both men and women are known to consume it.

(Disclaimer: Odisha Sun Times does not encourage consumption of alcohol. This video aims at depicting the socio-cultural importance of the beverage in the community.)