"Cooking isn't just about feeding the stomach, Kanna," Amma whispered, dropping a handful of curry leaves into hot oil. They crackled like tiny fireworks. "It’s about balancing the heat in the body with the season outside."

Food plays a significant role in Indian culture and is often at the center of social and family gatherings. In India, food is not just a source of sustenance but also a way of showing hospitality and respect for guests. The concept of "atma-satisfaction" or "self-satisfaction" is deeply rooted in Indian culture, and food is often seen as a way to nourish both the body and the soul.