PM Modi Tries Jhalmuri in West Bengal, Vendor Initially Refuses Payment

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, known for his love of Indian regional cuisine, made headlines during his recent campaign trail in West Bengal. Amid four back-to-back rallies on a packed Sunday, he paused in Jhargram to savour Jhalmuri — a beloved local street snack. Modi later shared the moment on X, writing that he enjoyed “delicious Jhalmuri” between his hectic schedule, and the post quickly went viral.

In the video, Modi approached a vendor and requested, “Bhai hamein apna jhalmuri khilao.” When asked about the price, the seller quoted just ₹10 to ₹20. In a candid and memorable exchange, when the vendor asked whether to add onions, Modi quipped, “Haan khate hain, bus dimag nahi khate” — drawing widespread applause and laughter online. The vendor initially refused to accept payment, only agreeing after Modi’s insistence.

What Is Jhalmuri?

Jhalmuri is a no-cook street snack made with puffed rice, roasted peanuts, tomatoes, cucumbers, sliced onions, chaat masala, and a distinctive dash of raw mustard oil. Traditionally served in a paper cone called a thonga, it is believed to have originated in Colonial Kolkata during the late 19th to early 20th century. The mustard oil lends it a pungent, earthy aroma unique to Bengali street food.

Why This Snack Is a Street Food Icon

Beyond its bold flavour, Jhalmuri is celebrated for being light, gut-friendly, low in calories, and incredibly affordable — still available for as little as ₹10–20. Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has even recommended it as an ideal evening snack for weight management, cementing its status as both a cultural staple and a nutritional gem.