Independence Day Picnic celebrations: Unpacking India’s picnic heritage

Picnics are a timeless tradition that’s as enjoyable today as it was generations ago! From lavish royal outings to casual family picnics, sharing food outdoors is a delightful experience. As we celebrate India’s Independence Day, let's embark on an adventurous journey through India’s history of all-day picnics. Discover how picnic traditions and menus have evolved over centuries and get ready to pack your basket for a modern twist on classic tastes. Let's go!

Unpacking the influence

Royal outings

In ancient India, royal picnics were extravagant affairs featuring outdoor feasts, complete with ornate tents and a plethora of royal dishes. Imagine Indian Maharajas escaping the summer heat to opulent outings with their courts.

Colonial charm 

Then came the British rule, when picnics majorly evolved, blending Indian and British culinary features. Afternoon tea on the lawns, with sandwiches and scones, became a popular pastime among the elite.

Modern-day gatherings 

Post-independence, picnics in India took a more democratic turn. Family outings at parks and beaches became more common. These contemporary gatherings usually feature simple yet delicious home-cooked snacks taking centre stage.

Picnic basket must-haves: food edition

Chaat-inspired salad

An ode to the rich street food culture of India, this salad is a vibrant mix of crunchy elements like boiled chickpeas, cucumber and onion with tangy tamarind and spicy chilli chutneys and a drizzle of yoghurt. This salad is not only delicious but also light, nutritious and refreshing, making it a perfect choice for an all-day outdoor picnic.

Curried egg sandwiches

These sandwiches combine the best of British and Indian culinary traditions. The filling is made from mashed hardboiled eggs mixed with creamy mayonnaise, fragrant curry powder and finely chopped onions. Spread this flavourful mixture on soft sandwich bread and cut it into bite-sized pieces for an easy-to-carry, crowd-pleasing picnic treat.

Aloo paratha

This dish is a staple in many Indian households and is a perfect picnic treat because it’s easy to carry, and versatile enough to be enjoyed hot or cold. Serve it with a side of pickles, ketchup or yoghurt for an extra burst of flavour.

Pound cakes

A true classic, pound cake is a timeless picnic treat that's rich, flavourful and easy to carry. Made with flour, butter, sugar and eggs, its dense and moist texture makes it a gourmet addition to your outdoor celebrations.

Deviled eggs

A classic picnic dish, deviled eggs are simple yet satiating. Boiled eggs are halved, and the yolks are mixed with mayonnaise, mustard and a dash of chilly, pepper, and cumin powder before being stuffed back into the egg whites. The best part is that they are easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults.

Beyond the food, what you really need to make your picnic a big hit is a bit of planning. So, choose the right spot, pack light, carry a comfortable mat, games and a camera to capture the fun moments with your loved ones. And most importantly, let everyone contribute to the planning process to make this a memorable day for all.

What is your go-to picnic recipe? Tell us in the comments!