Abstract

*Dr. Vishwavasu Gaur and Prof. Vaidya Banwari Lal Gaur

ABSTRACT

The traditional use of Chhachhik? (a thin form of buttermilk) as a summer beverage is deeply embedded in Indian culture and cuisine. However, a cursory interpretation of classical Ayurvedic references has led to the perception that buttermilk (takra) is contraindicated during the hot season. This article revisits such interpretations through a scriptural lens, clarifies the original context of classical prohibitions, and explores the transformative role of sa?sk?ra (processing) in rendering certain forms of buttermilk therapeutically appropriate, even in summer. Drawing upon authoritative Ayurvedic treatises such as Charakasa?hit?, Su?rutasa?hit? and Bh?vaprak??a, the paper elucidates the rationale for the use of Chhachhik? as a light, cooling, and digestive beverage.Chakrap??i and Dalha?a, in their commentaries on the Charaka and Su?ruta Sa?hit?s, have frequently endorsed practices validated by the experience of senior physicians (v?ddha-vaidya-vyavah?ra-siddha). When such practices also align with popular usage (lokasiddha) and are adapted through proper processing (sa?sk?ra) to suit place, time, and context, they gain full scriptural and practical acceptance.