Grown in the fertile hills of Manipur for centuries, this deep-purple grain is unhulled, unpolished and packed with anthocyanins, fibre, protein and iron. A grain so prized it was once "forbidden" to all but royalty.
Chak-Hao — literally "delicious rice" in Meitei — has been cultivated by Manipur's farming communities for generations, served at festivals and royal feasts. It carries a Geographical Indication (GI) tag that recognises it as a protected, region-specific treasure of India.
"Chakhao" holds an official Geographical Indication — the same protected status given to Darjeeling tea and Basmati — marking its authentic Manipuri roots.
Grains are picked by hand and dried under the sun, retaining their husk, bran and germ — and with it, their full natural integrity.
No polishing, no chemicals, no additives. Just whole-grain black rice exactly as it grows on Manipur's terraced hills.
Everyday white rice is stripped of its most nutritious parts. Chak-Hao keeps everything the grain was born with.
One honest pack of pure, unpolished Manipuri black rice — ready for your kitchen.
Pure, unhulled and unpolished — a perfect blend of nutrients, fibre, protein and vitamins. Keeps its husk, bran and germ, making it a high source of antioxidants and dietary fibre. Naturally gluten-free and diabetic-friendly.
For centuries, Manipur's communities have valued Chak-Hao as much for wellness as for flavour. Here's why.
Antioxidants and fibre work together to support healthy cholesterol levels as part of a balanced diet.
A low glycemic index and generous fibre help you feel fuller for longer, naturally.
Diabetic-friendly by nature — the whole grain releases energy slowly and steadily.
Deep-purple anthocyanins help the body counter everyday oxidative stress and inflammation.
A safe, nourishing grain for those with gluten sensitivities or coeliac concerns.
Protein, iron and complex carbs make it wholesome fuel for busy, active days.
Not all rice is equal. Here's how Manipur's black rice compares to the everyday options on your shelf.
| Nutrient / Feature | Chak-Hao Black Rice | White Rice | Brown Rice | Red Rice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthocyanin antioxidants | Highest | None | Low | Moderate |
| Dietary fibre | Very high | Low | High | High |
| Protein content | High | Low | Moderate | Moderate |
| Iron | High | Low | Moderate | High |
| Glycemic index | Low | High | Medium | Medium |
| Whole grain (bran & germ) | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Gluten-free | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Indicative comparison based on published nutritional literature. Actual values vary with variety, soil and season.
The takeaway: Brown and red rice are wholesome whole grains too — but Chak-Hao stands apart for its exceptional anthocyanin content, the deep-purple antioxidant pigment that ordinary rice simply doesn't have. Whole-grain nutrition, a low glycemic index and antioxidant richness in one heritage grain — that's why it's called the "forbidden rice."
Its soft grains soak up sauces, spices and sweeteners beautifully — equally at home in sweet and savoury dishes.
The grain is naturally sweet, so the classic Manipuri pudding needs little added sugar — creamy, rich and unforgettable.
Toss cooked black rice with fresh vegetables, nuts and a citrus vinaigrette for a vibrant, nutritious starter.
Stir-fry your favourite protein and vegetables over a bed of black rice for a complete, wholesome meal.
Use as a striking risotto base, a sushi-roll filling, or a dramatic bed under seared salmon.
A little patience rewards you with tender grains and a beautiful natural purple hue.
Wash the grains gently until the water runs mostly clear.
Soak 2–3 hours for the best texture and even cooking.
Use a 1 : 2.5 rice-to-water ratio and simmer until tender.
Watch it turn a rich purple — then serve sweet or savoury.
Chak-Hao is a traditional Manipuri black rice known for its deep-purple anthocyanin content and exceptional nutritional value. It's an unpolished whole grain treasured across Northeast India for centuries.
Yes! The natural anthocyanins release as it cooks, giving the rice a rich, beautiful purple colour — a clear sign of its antioxidant content.
Chak-Hao has a low glycemic index, which makes it a sensible choice for blood-sugar management as part of a balanced diet. As always, those managing a medical condition should consult their doctor.
Soak the rice for 2–3 hours for the best texture, then cook in a 1 : 2.5 rice-to-water ratio until the grains are tender. It works in both sweet dishes like kheer and savoury rice bowls.
Absolutely. It's nutritious, mineral-rich, naturally gluten-free and chemical-free — a wholesome grain for the whole family.
Yes. Shiva Organic ships pan-India with free delivery on orders over ₹99, and exports to 20+ countries. For bulk or international orders, message us on WhatsApp.
Put Manipur's GI-tagged Chak-Hao in your pantry and bring centuries of heritage to every bite.