And Why Aazol’s Unpolished Indrayani Rice Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen

Grains are the foundation of Indian meals—steamed rice with dal, khichdi on a rainy day, or a comforting bowl of pulao. But beneath this familiarity lies a growing concern: how much do we really know about the grains we consume every day?

In particular, the distinction between polished and unpolished rice is far more significant than most realise. It’s a difference that affects not only flavour but also nutrition, digestion, and even the livelihood of our farmers.

Let’s dive deep into what sets unpolished rice apart—and why Aazol’s Unpolished Indrayani Rice is a superior choice that honours both your health and heritage.

Polished Grains: A Glossy Illusion

Polished rice, also commonly known as white rice, is the result of a mechanical process that removes the outer bran layer and the germ. This makes the grain whiter, softer in texture, and faster to cook. It also extends shelf life, which is great for large-scale distribution.

But here’s the problem—this “refinement” strips the rice of its most nutrient-dense parts.

What you’re left with is a grain that’s visually appealing but nutritionally hollow. Polished rice contains far less fibre, fewer B vitamins, and a higher glycaemic index. That means it converts quickly to sugar in your bloodstream, leading to spikes in energy followed by crashes. Over time, this can contribute to poor digestion, weight gain, and increased risk of diabetes.

In essence, polished rice may look good on your plate—but it doesn’t do much for your body.

Unpolished Grains: The Wholesome Original

Unpolished rice, by contrast, is far closer to the natural state in which grains grow. It retains the outer bran layer and the germ—components that house the bulk of the rice’s nutrients.

Choosing unpolished rice means:

• Higher fibre for improved gut health
• Longer satiety — you feel fuller for longer
• Sustained energy due to slower carbohydrate absorption
• A natural supply of micronutrients, especially B-complex vitamins, iron, and magnesium

It’s food the way nature intended it—untouched, unbleached, and undeniably better for you.

Why Indrayani Rice Stands Out

Among India’s rich diversity of rice varieties, Indrayani holds a special place. Indigenous to Maharashtra’s western belt, it’s celebrated for its delicate aroma and a unique stickiness that sets it apart from regular long-grain rice.

Traditionally used in Maharashtrian households, Indrayani rice is well-suited to the region’s culinary favourites like varan-bhaat (dal-rice), masale bhaat, and even sweet dishes like kheer.

Its mildly sticky texture allows it to absorb flavours beautifully—making every bite more aromatic and satisfying.

Aazol’s Unpolished Indrayani Rice: Tradition Meets Nutrition

What makes Aazol’s Unpolished Indrayani Rice truly exceptional is not just the grain—but its story.

This rice is sourced directly from a collective of natural farmers based in Maharashtra’s tribal belt. These are self-help groups and farming communities who follow traditional, sustainable methods—eschewing chemicals in favour of time-honoured cultivation practices.

The result? A grain that’s:

• 🌾 Highly aromatic — naturally fragrant without additives
• 🌾 Unpolished — retaining the bran layer and its nutrition
• 🌾 Sticky in texture — ideal for comfort food, pulao, or desserts
• 🌾 Responsibly grown — supporting rural livelihoods and biodiversity

By choosing this rice, you aren’t just choosing better health—you’re choosing to support grassroots farmers and sustainable agriculture.

Beyond the Plate: Why This Choice Matters

We often underestimate how something as simple as switching your rice variety can have a far-reaching impact. Here’s how unpolished Indrayani rice transforms the everyday:

1. Supports Digestive Health
   The fibre in unpolished rice helps maintain regular bowel movements and feeds healthy gut bacteria. It’s especially beneficial for those with sluggish digestion or irregular eating patterns.
2. Balances Blood Sugar
   Unpolished rice releases glucose more slowly, helping prevent spikes and crashes in energy levels—ideal for managing weight or controlling Type 2 diabetes.
3. Builds Immunity Naturally
   Rich in essential minerals and B vitamins, it plays a key role in supporting your body’s immune response, nerve function, and cell repair.
4. Promotes Sustainable Eating
   Refined rice requires more water, energy, and processing. By choosing naturally-grown unpolished rice, you lower your carbon footprint and encourage local, eco-friendly farming systems.

How to Cook and Use Aazol’s Indrayani Rice

This rice is incredibly versatile. The sticky nature makes it ideal for:

• 🍛 Everyday meals – Serve with varan, amti, or sabzi
• 🍚 One-pot dishes – Like masale bhaat or khichdi
• 🍥 Sweet treats – Such as kheer or payasam
• 🥗 Comfort food – A bowl of plain Indrayani rice with ghee and pickle can be surprisingly soul-satisfying

Tip: Wash the rice gently, soak it for 20 minutes before cooking, and use slightly less water than you would for basmati rice to maintain its texture.

Final Thoughts: The Grain That Gives Back

Health trends may come and go, but the wisdom of traditional diets remains timeless. When our ancestors chose to eat unpolished grains, they weren’t following a fad—they were following nature.

In today’s world, where nutrition is often compromised for appearance and convenience, Aazol’s Unpolished Indrayani Rice is a quiet rebellion. It’s a way to eat more consciously, support sustainable farming, and nourish your body with food that’s real.

So the next time you reach for that glossy white grain, ask yourself: is it really feeding you?

Switch to unpolished. Switch to better. Switch to Aazol.