As Assam gears up for Bhogali Bihu celebrations, a unique yet traditional delicacy is drawing attention in Nalbari district’s Tihu area. Locally known as “American curd,” this rich buffalo-milk curd has become a must-have for festive breakfasts, attracting visitors from across and beyond the district.
For many households, Bhogali Bihu is synonymous with an elaborate spread of traditional foods. This year, alongside customary items like pitha and laru, buffalo-milk curd has claimed a prominent spot on the festive menu.
Those eager to savor its authentic taste are flocking to Santi Ram Dadhi Bhandar at America Chowk in Shalimar village, Tihu. Made from pure buffalo milk, the curd is prized for its thick texture, natural sweetness, and distinctive aroma. The shop preserves a hereditary preparation method passed down through generations, ensuring each batch retains its traditional character. To meet the high demand this Bhogali season, Santi Ram Dadhi Bhandar has stocked nearly 10 to 15 quintals of buffalo-milk curd.
Part of its appeal lies in how the curd is set and stored. Sold in earthen pots and bamboo tubes, these traditional containers not only enhance the taste but also extend shelf life, reinforcing its artisanal identity. For customers, this method symbolizes purity and authenticity—a welcome contrast to mass-produced dairy products.
The enterprise is run by Hemen Rajbongshi, a self-reliant dairy farmer who has built a livelihood around buffalo rearing and year-round curd production. His curd supplies extend beyond Nalbari and Guwahati to markets across Assam. During the festive season, buyers regularly travel specifically to America Chowk to purchase this celebrated curd.
The rising popularity of Tihu’s “American curd” reflects a broader trend: traditional foods, rooted in local knowledge and sustainable practices, continue to win trust and demand. As Bhogali Bihu nears, this humble buffalo-milk curd from a small Nalbari village serves as a delicious reminder that authenticity, when nurtured with care, never goes out of style.
