Kundan Kumar from Gaya, Bihar has introduced a new variation of the traditional tilak called “neera tilak” in Gaya. Neera is heated and then made into jaggery, which is then mixed with sesame seeds to create the tilak. This neera tilak is believed to be highly beneficial for health and can even be consumed by diabetic patients. The demand for neera tilak is increasing, and it is being sold at a higher price compared to other types of tilak.
Gaya is leading in neera production in Bihar. In 2016, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar implemented a ban on alcohol in the state, which led to a promotion of neera production. Gaya district has become the top producer of neera in Bihar, with approximately 20 lakh liters of neera being produced in 2023. However, some neera counters had to be closed due to lack of interest from the public. In light of Makar Sankranti, Kundan Kumar has decided to make neera tilak, showcasing his hard work and dedication.
The neera tilak is gaining popularity among both diabetic patients and foreign tourists visiting Bodh Gaya. The neera products, including the tilak, are being sold at a higher price compared to other types of tilak. Various training programs have been conducted to promote neera production in Gaya district, with over 100 neera counters being set up in different areas. Despite some counters closing down, Kundan Kumar’s decision to make neera tilak is bringing color to the festival of Makar Sankranti.
कुंदन कुमार गया के इलरा गांव में नीरा से तिलकुट बनाने की शुरुआत की है। पिछले साल बिहार के मुख्यमंत्री नीतीश कुमार ने नीरा से तैयार लड्डू, पेड़ा, लाई और तिलकुट बनाने का प्रोसेस देखा था। नीरा से तैयार तिलकुट की डिमांड बढ़ी हुई है और इसकी कीमत अन्य तिलकुट से ज्यादा है। नीरा से गुड़ बनाने के लिए जीविका से प्रशिक्षण दिया गया था। गया जिला में नीरा उत्पादन का अव्वल है और गया में नीरा काउंटर खोले गए हैं। इस बीच मकर संक्रांति के दिन डब्लू कुमार ने नीरा से तिलकुट बनाने का फैसला लिया है।
