Tanjore Famous Karuppu Kavuni Rice

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Karuppu Kavuni is a heritage black rice of Tamil Nadu, long celebrated across Asia as “forbidden rice” once prized by royalty for its rarity and nourishment. Local lore holds that Chettinad merchants brought the grain from Burma to Tamil country over a century ago, where it took root in the Kaveri delta around Thanjavur and entered temple feasts and festive kitchens. Its deep purple‑black hue comes from anthocyanins; families traditionally cook it as payasam or sweet pongal, believing it builds strength, stamina, and longevity.