FROM FIELDS TO FORESTS- A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF CULINARY TRADITIONS IN BIHAR AND JHARKHAND

Abstract [English]

This research delves into the unique but intersecting culinary cultures of Bihar and Jharkhand, two culturally diverse states in Eastern India. Using a qualitative approach involving field visits, in-depth interviews, surveys, and secondary source analysis, the study examines how local cuisines are influenced by agricultural production, tribal culture, religious rituals, and socio-economic conditions. The research discovers that although the food culture of Bihar is more based on agrarian systems and festival-based preparations, the cuisine of Jharkhand portrays strong connections to tribal traditions, forest foods, and eco-sustainable cooking. With the support of software such as Dedoose for qualitative coding and correlation analysis, the research also identifies changing food preferences in urban and migrant communities, where traditional recipes are increasingly crossing over with modern and global food trends. This study emphasizes the need to preserve food culture in the times of urbanization and globalization, and documents an emerging cultural and health-conscious trend towards traditional, locally produced foods in both countries. The research adds to the wider conversation on food, identity, and sustainability in modern India.