Kohlu Machine: A Highlight of Maha Kumbh
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Synopsis
In the midst of the Maha Kumbh festivities, a traditional 'Kohlu machine' stands out by showcasing its cold-pressed oil extraction technique, attracting health-conscious visitors and enthusiasts of ancient Indian practices.
Key Takeaways
- Kohlu machine uses traditional oil extraction methods.
- Operates at lower temperatures to retain nutrients.
- Promotes natural health benefits through traditional techniques.
- Encourages awareness of healthy cooking practices.
- Highlights the importance of preserving ancient Indian traditions.
Prayagraj, Feb 11 (NationPress) During the spiritual celebration of the Maha Kumbh, where countless devotees converge to partake in a sacred dip at the junction of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the legendary Saraswati rivers, a distinctive attraction is subtly garnering attention. Nestled within the Khadi Utsav pandal, a 'Kohlu machine' is captivating audiences with its traditional technique of extracting pure, cold-pressed oil. This age-old method has enthralled both health-conscious visitors and those eager to safeguard ancient Indian traditions.
The Kohlu machine, a historic oil extraction technique, mesmerizes attendees with its natural approach, which involves obtaining oil at a low temperature, thereby preserving its nutritional qualities. The process is driven by wood and operates without the rapid machinery and extreme heat linked to contemporary oil production methods. Guests are not only observing a traditional craft in progress but also gaining insights into its health advantages.
In a conversation with IANS, Vipin Kumar, a devotee, remarked, “It’s truly remarkable to see oil being extracted this way. The natural process is incredibly advantageous for health. By visiting the Ganga Sabha Triveni, we are not just connecting with the divine; we are also acquiring knowledge on how to maintain natural health and prevent diseases. The oil produced here is of outstanding quality, and I had the opportunity to sample it myself.”
The traditional Kohlu machine operates at significantly lower temperatures—approximately 30 to 35 degrees Celsius—unlike modern machines that function at temperatures nearing 100 degrees. This low-temperature extraction guarantees that the oil retains its complete nutritional profile, unlike refined oils processed under high heat, which lose many essential nutrients.
Chetan Rajput, a dedicated proponent of traditional Indian techniques, shared insights on the significance of such practices: “I’ve received accolades for promoting traditional methods. Regrettably, over the past fifty years, many of these practices have been neglected. In India, nearly two out of ten individuals suffer from ailments like cancer and heart disease, primarily due to refined oils and poor cooking methods. The Kohlu process, conversely, operates on wood, maintaining temperatures that preserve the oil's nutrients. The machinery doesn’t heat up to harmful levels, unlike modern machines that spin at thousands of revolutions per minute, compromising the nutritional integrity. When we process foods naturally, we retain the benefits that nature intended.”
Rajput further emphasized the value of natural processing, likening it to the production of sugar and jaggery.
“Sugar and liquor derive from sugarcane, but the harm stems from intense, artificial processing—high temperatures and chemical additives. In contrast, natural processing, as demonstrated with the Kohlu machine, is considerably healthier, preserving the essence of the seeds or fruits utilized,” he concluded.
