Chulhas

Chulha literally means Stove in Hindi. They are mud stoves made in a U shape with small holes on the top for ventilation. These were among India's most widely used stoves before Modern Gas and Kerosene Stoves were introduced. The chulhas have an opening in the front to add fuel. The most common fuel used in Chulhas is Wood, Sticks, Gobbar cakes, straw, and other dry vegetation waste. Chulhas are also casted in Iron.

Though it was inexpensive and was used by most people, they were replaced by our modern stoves as the smoke created by the stoves caused severe health issues. To overcome these issues, Chulhas with chimneys were introduced. Still, modern stoves gained popularity with their clean fuel source, efficiency, and safety features.

Though they have their shortcomings, the Chulhas have fed an entire generation. They are looked upon as a symbol of Nostalgia.

Photography @chatori_soul