Although dieticians are a bit apprehensive about the high-calorie content of traditional Sadya (feast) of Keralam, a grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf comprising around 26 to 28 dishes, Kerala Tourism is exploring the possibility of turning the delicious Sadya of the State into an international brand.

Kerala Tourism has requested Apple CEO John Ternus, who assumed office on September 1, to include an emoji representing Keralam’s Sadya on iPhone. The request was made through the official social media handle of Kerala Tourism in response to a post by Mr. Ternus after assuming the office.

Speaking to , a senior bureaucrat said, “We are not sure whether Apple would entertain such a request from Kerala Tourism. However, given the growing appeal of Sadya, especially during festival seasons such as Onam across the globe, we thought it would be a wise move to make such a request to the Apple CEO.”

Buzz on social media

Although the petition by Kerala Tourism has not evoked any response from the CEO so far, it has generated a buzz on social media platforms, with the move receiving widespread support from netizens as Sadya is a hallmark of festivals as well as various religious ceremonies and wedding celebrations in the State.

According to James Kodianthara, a tourism expert and former chairperson of the Kerala chapter of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Sadya is definitely a grand product from Keralam that could be marketed as an international brand across the globe.

“There are a lot of examples across the world, like steak in American cuisine and pork knuckle in Czech cuisine, which have brought fame and international recognition to destinations. Perhaps, after Kathakali and snakeboat regatta, Sadya can fetch international spotlight to Keralam,” said Mr. Kodianthara.

Main dishes

A lot of airlines serving southern India serve Sadya aboard their flights, especially during festival occasions such as Onam. The feast includes dishes such as Kaalan made with coconut; cucumber Pachadi, a garnished salad; and Puli Inji, a sweet and tangy ginger-based chutney; along with Payasams and other dishes.

Meanwhile, Dr. Anupa Jose, a dietician, attached to a private clinic, said that although Sadya is an integral part of Keralites' lives, the amount of rice served on the banana leaf should be reduced, given the high-calorie content of the traditional feast. Instead, curries prepared with legumes and lentils should be given equal prominence in the feast to limit total calorie intake to less than 1,000 while ensuring adequate protein.