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Tamil Nadu's 'Run for Rice' Marathon Promotes Ancient Superfood Pazhaya Soru

Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma. Subramanian flagged off the 'Run for Rice - Pazhaya Soru Marathon 2026' in Chennai to promote the nutritional and cultural significance of overnight-soaked rice. The event emphasized how this traditional dish, once a staple for laborers, is rich in probiotics and aligns with modern preventive healthcare. Over 1,000 participants, including medical professionals and students, joined to spread awareness about its health benefits. The minister noted that pazhaya soru is now being served in star hotels, hoping the marathon catalyzes a return to healthier, traditional food choices.

Key Points: Tamil Nadu's Pazhaya Soru Marathon Promotes Traditional Health

  • Highlights probiotic benefits of pazhaya soru
  • Promotes traditional dietary wisdom for modern health
  • Over 1,000 participants including doctors and students
  • Event aims to drive healthier, culturally-rooted food choices
2 min read

Tamil Nadu Health Minister Flags Off 'Run for Rice Pazhaya Soru Marathon 2026' in Chennai

Tamil Nadu Health Minister flags off marathon highlighting health benefits of pazhaya soru, the traditional overnight-soaked rice, as a modern superfood.

"Run for Health, Run for Tradition. - Event Participants"

Chennai, February 8

Emphasising the importance of traditional nutrition for sustainable health, Tamil Nadu Health and Family Welfare Minister Ma. Subramanian on Sunday flagged off the 'Run for Rice - Pazhaya Soru Marathon 2026' at Besant Nagar Beach in Chennai.

The awareness marathon aimed to highlight the nutritional and cultural significance of pazhaya soru (overnight-soaked rice), a traditional Tamil dish known for its probiotic properties and health benefits. The event underscored the relevance of age-old food habits in promoting modern lifestyle wellness and preventive healthcare.

Historically, pazhaya soru was a staple breakfast for farmers, labourers, and warriors, providing sustained energy even under harsh climatic conditions. Rich in probiotics, easily digestible, and naturally cooling to the body, the food is now being recognised once again as an affordable and powerful superfood aligned with modern preventive healthcare practices.

According to Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma. Subramanian, over 1,000 participants took part in the event. The participants were united by the message, "Run for Health, Run for Tradition."

During the event, the state Health Minister noted that Pazhaya soru is now being served for breakfast at several star hotels across Tamil Nadu and even abroad. He expressed his hope that the marathon would serve as a catalyst to drive healthier food choices, specifically those rooted in the traditional dietary wisdom of Tamil Nadu.

"The marathon was organised to create widespread awareness about the greatness and health benefits of pazhaya soru. More than 1,000 doctors and medical college students, along with leading medical professionals, participated to promote public awareness. Pazhaya soru is now served for breakfast at several star hotels in Tamil Nadu and abroad. I hope this awareness generated by the marathon reaches the general public at scale and contributes to healthier food choices rooted in Tamil Nadu's traditional dietary wisdom," Subramanian told reporters.

The marathon was jointly organised by the Institute of Surgical Gastroenterology and Liver Transplantation and the Department of Regenerative Medicine, Government Stanley Medical College.

Several senior health officials participated in the event, including Additional Chief Secretary (Health) P. Senthil Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of Tamil Nadu, Dr. M.G.R. Medical University K. Narayanasamy; Director of National Health Mission Arun Thamburaj, Project Director of Tamil Nadu Health Systems Project Vineeth, Director of Medical Education Sugandhi Rajakumari; Dean of Government Stanley Medical College A.Aravind; and Jeswanth, who is the director of the Institute of Surgical Gastroenterology and Liver Transplantation, Government Stanley Medical College.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While promoting traditional food is good, I'm not sure a marathon is the best use of the Health Minister's time. There are pressing issues in TN's government hospitals that need immediate attention. The focus should be on improving healthcare infrastructure first.
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Arun Y
As a doctor from Coimbatore, I fully support this. Modern medicine is now recognizing the power of probiotics and gut health. Pazhaya soru is a fantastic, affordable source. It's great to see medical professionals leading this awareness drive.
S
Sarah B
Fascinating read! I'm an expat living in Chennai and love learning about local foods. I've seen this on breakfast menus but didn't know the history or health benefits. Will definitely try it now. "Run for Health, Run for Tradition" is a powerful message.
K
Karthik V
My thatha (grandfather) was a farmer and swore by this. He said it gave him strength for the whole day in the fields. It's heartening to see our government promoting sustainable, local, and healthy eating habits. Hope this inspires other states to look at their own traditional superfoods.
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Nisha Z
Love the concept! But I hope the awareness also includes proper preparation methods. If not stored correctly, fermented rice can pose risks. The messaging should be clear and include food safety. Otherwise, a brilliant way to connect culture with wellness.

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