10 Popular Indian Things You Didn’t Know Had Foreign Origins

India has a remarkable ability to absorb and adapt elements from around the world, transforming them into cherished parts of its own culture. Many items we now associate closely with Indian traditions, cuisine, and daily life actually have roots outside the subcontinent. Here’s a list of ten such things that have been so deeply embraced by India that their foreign origin is often forgotten.

1. Samosa – A Middle Eastern Gift

What is now India’s most beloved tea-time snack, the samosa, originally came from the Middle East. It was known as Sambosa and made its way to Indian kitchens through trade and migration, eventually becoming a staple on every street corner.

2. Chai – China’s Brew, India’s Heart

Chai, the soul of Indian households, was originally introduced from China. It gained popularity in India during the British Raj and has since evolved into a drink with countless regional varieties, from masala chai to kadak cutting chai.

3. Kites – An Ancient Chinese Import

Flying kites is a beloved activity across Indian festivals like Makar Sankranti and Independence Day. Yet, this custom began in China, with kites reaching India via Korea through early traders. Today, kite-flying holds deep cultural significance in many Indian states.

4. Rajma-Chawal – Beans from the Americas

The classic North Indian comfort food, rajma-chawal, wouldn’t exist without kidney beans, which came from Central Mexico and Guatemala. Indians have since given this simple bean-and-rice dish a spicy and flavorful transformation.

5. Cricket – An English Sport, an Indian Obsession

Cricket, now almost a religion in India, was introduced by the British during colonial rule. While it began as a foreign game, India has not only made it its own but has also become one of the most powerful nations in international cricket.

6. Potato – Peru’s Staple, India’s Favorite

The widely loved aloo is another surprise. It originated in South America, especially in Peru and Bolivia. Over centuries, potatoes found their way to India and became central to countless dishes across regional cuisines.

7. Hand Knitting – Threads from Egypt

Knitting, a cozy memory often associated with grandmothers, has roots in ancient Egypt. While it has become a widespread domestic art in India, especially in colder regions, the technique traveled far before reaching Indian homes.

8. Biryani – Persia’s Royal Dish

Biryani, the crown jewel of Indian cuisine , was originally a Persian dish. Derived from the Farsi word Birian, it entered India with travelers and invaders, evolving into numerous regional varieties like Hyderabadi, Lucknowi, and Kolkata biryani.

9. Jalebi – A Sweet from the Middle East

The crispy, syrupy jalebi is a festive must in Indian households. However, its origins trace back to the Arabic sweet zulabiya, brought to medieval India by Persian traders. Today, it is firmly entrenched in Indian sweets culture.

10. Bata Shoes – European Roots, Indian Reach

Bata, one of the most recognized shoe brands in Indian households, was actually founded in 1894 in Zlín, now part of the Czech Republic, by Tomáš Bata. Despite its foreign beginnings, it is seen as an Indian brand by millions due to its deep presence across the country.