Udupi: Today marks Aati Amavasya, a sacred day in the Tulu calendar, observed with deep-rooted health rituals across the coastal districts of Karnataka. Unique to Tulu Nadu, this tradition blends cultural reverence with ancient wellness practices.
The highlight of the day is the consumption of “Aati Kashaya” (herbal decoction) made from the bark of the pale tree—a ritual believed to cool the body and offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
The Ritual
Before sunrise, men collect and crush the pale tree bark using stones. The bark is then boiled to make a potent decoction, which is consumed by the entire family. On this specific day, it is believed the bark carries maximum medicinal value.
The practice, once confined to homes, has now extended to the community level. Organizations like Tulukoot have taken the initiative to distribute the decoction to hundreds of people, promoting the tradition publicly and helping it reach younger generations.
The ritual is often followed by eating cashew nuts and fenugreek porridge (menthe ganji)—both known for aiding digestion and enhancing the cooling effect of the decoction.
Aati Amavasya is more than a folk belief—it’s a living example of how traditional knowledge meets seasonal wellness, passed down with reverence through generations in Tulu Nadu.