The use of an amalgamation of five or more metals is very common in India. It is believed that wearing or eating out of such a mix adds to the potent of the food and improves health. In India, such an amalgamation is worn as an ornament - bangle or ring. When used in the kitchen, it is either used to serve in or preserve food in or to eat out of, in the form of a plate or a bowl. Most commonly, the panch dhatu bowl is made from the amalgamation of brass, copper, bronze and any two other alloys. The bowls and plates are handed down as family heirlooms. Indians believe that the resultant vessel or ornament has the ability to enable the user to maintain good health. The metals are believed to infuse the food with additional strength and energy.
The panch dhatu bowl is used for various reasons in the Indian kitchen. It is used for serving and preservation. Food that is cooked is kept in it for medicinal properties that the amalgamation is believed to have. After a certain time, the food is then served out of or eaten from the panch dhatu bowl. The dish could also serve as a trough to contain cut vegetables and fruits for cooking. The shape and medicinal properties of the panch dhatu bowl enable it to be put to multiple uses. Many people use these bowls specially if someone in the family is sick.
The metal bowl is used in many modern restaurants and hotels that promote traditional Indian food. It adds to the ambience and flavor and offers authenticity to the food served. In many Indian homes, across the country, the dish is used only in the time of illness. But, at the same time, in many homes the dish makes a regular appearance at the dining table. It is even displayed for show in restaurants and homes. The panch dhatu bowl is very versatile in use and safe around children. Though the bowl is heavy, the edges and rounded. In the modern Indian home, when used to serve dry food like salads and starters, the bowl is usually lined either with lettuce leaves or those of banana. The bowl looks great even amongst modern crystal table ware. The presence of the panch dhatu bowl offers warmth and appeal to the kitchen and dining areas. The vessels made of the amalgamation include plates and cooking utensils.
The use of an amalgamation of five or more metals is very common in India. It is believed that wearing or eating out of such a mix adds to the potent of the food and improves health. In India, such an amalgamation is worn as an ornament - bangle or ring. When used in the kitchen, it is either used to serve in or preserve food in or to eat out of, in the form of a plate or a bowl. Most commonly, the panch dhatu bowl is made from the amalgamation of brass, copper, bronze and any two other alloys. The bowls and plates are handed down as family heirlooms. Indians believe that the resultant vessel or ornament has the ability to enable the user to maintain good health. The metals are believed to infuse the food with additional strength and energy.
