Sirarakhong Chilli / Hathei Chilli Dried (GI-Tagged)

Harvested from Naga villages spread across Tankhul Village in Sirarakhong, Manipur where it is considered a 'God's gift', our GI-Tagged Sirarakhong Chilli has a high ASTA Colour value of 151- 165. Seasonal with high demand, our Sirarakhong Chilli even has it's own festival.

According to legend, the chilli variety was found by Sirarakhong's elders while hunting in the jungle. Additionally, the community has a traditional song devoted to Hathei in which the chilli is linked to the Tangkhul Naga tribe's cherished shawl known as 'Khuilang.'

Main issues faced by Sirarakong is low yield, only 20-25 Tonnes are harvested and 95% is consumed inside the Manipur state. This makes the chilli expensive when sold outside the site.

Paprika or Coloured chillies is known for its high colour and low pungency. It has wide use in culinary preparations, pharmaceuticals and confectionary as a natural colourant. Good quality paprika should have an ASTA (American Spice Trade association) colour value of 120 and above. Sirarakong Chilli is one of the finest varieties of Paprika found in the world.

The fruits of the Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli are incredibly versatile, whether used green or red. Dried chillies are highly valued for their bold, spicy flavor, making them a key ingredient in curried dishes, curry powders, and seasonings. Dehydrated green chillies are not only a flavorful addition to various recipes but also a rich source of Vitamin C, offering a nutritious boost alongside their vibrant taste.

Sirarakhong village, home to around 400 households and a population of 2,200, thrives on chilli cultivation, which serves as the primary source of income for its residents. The village produces an impressive 5,000 kg of dried chilli annually, with each household typically harvesting between 100 to 300 kg every six months. However, the farmers face significant challenges in transporting their harvest due to the hilly terrain and poor road conditions, which make it difficult to bring large quantities to Imphal. As a result, most of the chilli is sold locally in Ukhrul, while the bulk is marketed in Dimapur, Nagaland, where its exceptional quality is highly valued.

The origins of the Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli are shrouded in mystery, with no written records to trace its history. However, local lore paints a fascinating picture of its beginnings.  

Long ago, an elderly villager stumbled upon an unfamiliar plant while out hunting in the wild. Intrigued, he brought it back and nurtured it in his homestead, unaware of its true identity. When the plant eventually blossomed and bore fruit, the villagers discovered it was a chilli plant—a serendipitous find that would shape their community’s legacy.  

In the Tangkhul dialect, the word for bitterness is “Ha,” leading to the name "Hathei" for this unique chilli. From that fateful discovery, the cultivation of Hathei Chilli has been lovingly passed down through generations, becoming an integral part of the village's identity and culture. Today, the Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli continues to thrive, celebrated for its distinctive flavor and deep-rooted heritage.