Artistry
Love, in a leaf
It is love in a heart-shaped leaf. There are myths, legends and folktales around it, and even ancient scriptures pay ode to the importance of paan or betel leaf in love, life and health. Words Namita Kumar
36
February 2023
It has adorned the royal spreads of many kings. Has been a companion to queens. Has assisted thinkers and artists, and has inspired poetry as well. From being presented as royal gifts wrapped in gold and silver leafs, to divine offering for deities, and from sealing bonds of friendships to a must in wedding rituals, the paan (betel leaf and also when the leaf is wrapped into a cone with condiments) has been an intrinsic part of Indian history and tradition. The ubiquitous panwadi (paan seller) dishing out tightly wrapped betel leaf cones filled with a variety of fillings is a part