| Sirarakhong Hathei chilli | |||||
| Species: | Capsicum annum | ||||
| Origin: | Manipur, India | ||||
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The Sirarakhong Hathei chilli is a variety of chilli mainly grown in the Indian state of Manipur. It is widely cultivated crop in Sirarakhong village in the Ukhrul district of Manipur.[1] [2] [3]
In Sirarakhong village, Mizo chilli cultivation serves as the primary source of income and holds deep cultural significance. The villagers revere the chilli, even referencing it in a traditional song as a "red cover" enveloping the hills. This reverence culminates in the annual "Hathei Phanit" (Chilli Festival), celebrated since 2010, where the community comes together to honor the chilli's unique qualities and acknowledge it as a divine gift to their community.[4] [5] [6]
It is also known only as Sirarakhong chilli owing to the name of the village or simply as Hathei chilli.[7] [8]
The word "Ha" means bitter in the local Tangkhul language, and owing to its bitterness, it came to be known as Hathei.[9]
Renowned for its exceptional qualities, Hathei chilli boasts a distinctive taste, captivating aroma, and vibrant deep color. Characterized by its impressive size and bright-hued colors, it typically measures 8-9 inches in length.[10]
It was awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) status tag from the Geographical Indications Registry under the Union Government of India on 14/09/2021 (valid until 17/09/2027).[11]
Manipur Organic Mission (MOMA) from Imphal, proposed the GI registration of Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli. After filing the application in January 2017, the chilli was granted the GI tag in 2021 by the Geographical Indication Registry in Chennai, making the name "Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli" exclusive to the chilies grown in the region. It thus became the first chilli variety from Manipur and the seventh type of goods from Manipur to earn the GI tag.[12]