Among the foods consumed, grain has been used more extensively than other foods. Grain has also taken its place in the diet during work and leisure. However, based on the natural environment, various types of grains are eaten depending on the nature of the place.
Grains are of various types. The method of cultivation also varies. They are not sown in the same way or in the same environment. Their appearance also changes. Some grains are sown directly from seeds, while others are sown only after growing seedlings. Some need to be sown in watery places, while others need to be sown in dry places. The nutritional elements found in grains also differ from one grain to another.
Soybean
There are various types of Kaigu (soybeans) such as large Kaigu, small Kaigu, Mather Kaigu, etc. Their shape is round. It is considered not only as grain but also as fruit and pulses.
When the days become shorter and the weather gets colder, during Asoj-Kartik (Nepali months, roughly October-November), Kaigu (soybeans) are sown by scattering them. They are not sown in watery places, but in high and dry places. When the plants start to grow, they are propped up. If not propped, one plant supports another. When they are fully grown, the land is tilled repeatedly, and the fruits ripen. When the pods turn yellow, they are harvested, threshed with the stalks, and the Kaigu are separated by winnowing.
When the fertility of the soil decreases, leading to a poor harvest, or when the soil is said to be ruined, small black gram (kayagu) is sown. This has the ability to draw out elements from the crop that enrich the soil. As the plant grows, it draws out such elements. The more the plant grows, the more its capacity increases. The plant takes what it needs and accumulates the excess in its roots. When accumulated, the roots appear white, fibrous, and lumpy. It keeps what it needs for itself and accumulates the excess in the soil. Even in situations where the soil is too spoiled to sow kayagu, or when transplanting rice, whole kayagu seeds are scattered as fertilizer. Because it improves the soil and creates fertility, it is also called the 'king of grains'.When children suffer from boils and sores due to heat, as per Newar tradition, small black gram (kayagu) is offered along with mustard oil for healing. During a Shraddha ceremony, when serving a feast, after placing yogurt on the last plate (saray) and before offering fruits, it is believed that if small black gram (kayagu) is placed along with the mustard oil, the feast becomes auspicious (chwokha). During Chatha Puja, when narrating stories in Magh, and when performing Hali Mali rituals, kayagu is also kept along with other pulses. When preparing Kwati (mixed bean sprout soup), kayagu is also included.
Uneasy, restless, feeling unwell
A state of feeling unwell. Not extremely sick, nor completely fine. Sometimes feeling unwell, sometimes feeling fine. Unable to do this or that. Feeling restless About what to do. Unable to stay still where one is sitting, unable to go where one is going. When children are like this, they just cry and cause distress. Even after drinking milk, they quieten down for a moment. Then they open their mouth wide and cry again. They don't settle down. In such a state, saplings or plants are sprinkled on the ground as a remedy.
Uniformly, evenly, equally, in one go
Neither thin nor thick, just enough. Not more or less (insufficient) anywhere. When sowing seeds or saplings, instead of sowing sparsely in some places and not at all in others, it is done uniformly.
A type of smooth gourd
A type of gourd. It grows in clusters like pointed gourd. It is eaten by peeling off the skin. It is sweeter than pointed gourd. When cooked, it comes in two varieties: one with white 'eyes' and one with black 'eyes'.
Evil wind, bad air, malevolent draft
A harmful wind that blows. When such a wind blows, one feels uneasy and restless (Uneasy, restless, feeling unwell). In such a situation, chalk or ash is rubbed on the body and then discarded outside.
