Exploring Ancient Divine Beverages: Soma and Sura

The Divine Drinks of Ancient Times

In today's world, there are countless brands of alcohol, including Scotch, vodka, wine, and beer. However, have you ever pondered what the gods consumed during their era? A post circulating on social media draws from the Vedas, Puranas, and Mahabharata to unveil this intriguing mystery.

In ancient times, two primary types of drinks were served: Soma and Sura. Soma was the divine beverage favored by the gods. According to the Vedas, before embarking on battles, Indra and other deities would consume Soma to gain immense strength and power. Let's delve into the favorite brands and recipes from that era.

Two Special Drinks
During that time, the two main drinks were Soma and Sura. While Soma is often mistaken for alcohol, this is a misconception. The Rigveda refers to Soma as a 'divine essence.' It was not an intoxicant but rather the juice of a psychoactive herb. Scientists believe it was derived from plants like Ephedra, Sarkostema, or mushrooms, enhancing consciousness. The gods felt empowered before battles, with Indra being the most avid consumer of Soma. The Rigveda contains over 250 hymns dedicated to Soma, which was offered in rituals and consumed after filtration. It was not alcoholic but rather a form of 'divine energy drink.'

The Real Alcohol
Now, let's discuss the actual alcohol, known as Sura. This was a fermented drink containing alcohol. The Vedas clearly state that it was made from barley, rice, sugarcane, flowers, or fruits. Its preparation method closely resembles that of modern beer: boiling grains, adding yeast, and allowing fermentation for 7-15 days, resulting in an alcohol content of 5-15%. The Mahabharata mentions Sura during the Pandavas' rituals, and it was also consumed in the Kauravas' assembly. Warriors drank it before battles to boost their courage, while the gods preferred Soma.

Note: The information is based on mythological beliefs and has not been verified.