From Majun-e-Ishq To Sparrow Brain: What Indian Kings And Nawabs Ate For Stamina
The Sikh ruler of Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, reportedly consumed Ashwagandha and Shilajit regularly. He drank Badam Sharbat, a blend of almonds, saffron, milk, and sugar candy. The Maharaja laid great emphasis on horse riding and physical exercise. Despite being blind in one eye and bearing smallpox scars, he was famed for his physical strength and military skills. (News18 Hindi)
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Before independence, India had nearly 565 princely states, each ruled by its own king, nawab, or nizam. Their preferences, from food to lifestyle, were often lavish and unique. Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala was among the most notable. Standing 6 feet tall and weighing around 136 kg, he had a striking presence. Known to have 350 women in his harem, the Maharaja reportedly hired a foreign doctor to prepare aphrodisiacs for him and paid him a hefty salary. (News18 Hindi)
To boost his strength, the Patiala Maharaja consumed pearls, gold, silver, and various herbs. A special preparation made from the brain of a sparrow, mixed with finely chopped carrots, was part of his routine. He also consumed gold ash regularly, which was believed to enhance stamina and strength, enabling him to spend nights with his many queens. (News18 Hindi)
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Mutanjan is believed to have originated in the Middle East and was later adopted by Mughal chefs in India. It gradually gained popularity among Indian royalty. Author Mirza Zafar Hussain, in his book 'Qadeem Lucknow Ki Aakhiri Bahar', described its significance and popularity among the Mughals and Nawabs. (News18 Hindi)
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Wajid Ali Shah also raised chickens on a special diet and consumed their eggs. He regularly took Majun-e-Ishq, an herbal paste prepared by traditional Hakims. He believed in dance and music, particularly Kathak, as a form of stress relief. Known as a ' Rasik Nawab ', he was deeply aware of sensual pleasures. (News18 Hindi)
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