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Sharbati Basmati

Sharbati Basmati Rice – The Affordable Basmati with Rich Aroma and Taste

Introduction

In the diverse world of Indian rice varieties, Sharbati Basmati Rice holds a unique and important position. Often described as the “Common Man’s Basmati,” Sharbati is a non-premium yet highly aromatic long-grain rice that combines affordability, flavor, and visual appeal. Grown mainly in the northern plains of India, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh, Sharbati has become a popular choice for both domestic consumption and export to price-conscious international markets.

Although it is not classified as a true Basmati under the GI (Geographical Indication) tag, it closely resembles traditional Basmati in appearance, aroma, and cooking properties, making it an ideal substitute. Its soft texture, non-sticky nature, and fragrant aroma make Sharbati rice a go-to option for families, caterers, hotels, and food processors.

Origin and Cultivation

Sharbati rice is an indigenous variety of long-grain rice cultivated in the fertile plains of northern India, primarily in:

  • Haryana (especially Karnal and Kurukshetra)

  • Punjab

  • Western Uttar Pradesh

  • Madhya Pradesh (especially Sehore and Vidisha)

The name “Sharbati” is derived from the Hindi word Sharbat, meaning a sweet beverage, as the rice has a naturally mild and pleasant aroma. It is grown in both raw and parboiled (sela) forms and has become a favorite for its high yield, resistance to diseases, and low water requirement compared to premium Basmati varieties.

Agronomic Features

Sharbati rice is a farmer-friendly crop due to its adaptability, high productivity, and shorter growing cycle. Here are the key agronomic attributes:

  • Crop Duration: 120–135 days (depends on the climate and region)

  • Plant Height: 100–110 cm (semi-dwarf)

  • Yield Potential: 20–24 quintals per acre

  • Sowing Period: Mid-June to early July

  • Harvest Period: October to early November

  • Water Requirement: Moderate; tolerates low water conditions

  • Fertilizer Input: Moderate; performs well with balanced NPK inputs

  • Pest Resistance: Moderate to high; tolerant to bacterial leaf blight and blast

Due to its strong stem and semi-dwarf nature, Sharbati has low lodging risk, making it suitable for mechanical harvesting and easier post-harvest handling.

Grain Characteristics

Though Sharbati is not officially classified as Basmati, it closely resembles it in look and feel. Consumers often choose it for its impressive visual appeal and aroma.

  • Grain Length (Raw): 6.9 to 7.1 mm

  • Grain Type: Long and slender

  • Grain Color: Creamy white (raw), golden (parboiled/sela)

  • Elongation Ratio: 1.8 to 2.0x upon cooking

  • Cooked Grain Length: 12.5 to 13.5 mm

  • Aroma: Mild to moderate natural Basmati-like aroma

  • Texture (Cooked): Soft, fluffy, non-sticky

  • Chalkiness: Low to medium

  • Moisture Content (Standard): 12% max

Sharbati rice is usually aged for 6 to 12 months to enhance its cooking performance, aroma, and texture.

Cooking Qualities

Sharbati is known for its easy cooking, uniform grain size, and aromatic nature. While it lacks the high elongation ratio of 1121 or 1509 Basmati, it is still preferred by many for daily meals and budget cooking.

  • Time to Cook: 12–15 minutes (boiled or steamed)

  • Water Absorption: Moderate

  • Grain Behavior: Retains shape, does not stick together

  • Taste: Subtle, aromatic, and slightly sweet

  • Ideal For: Daily meals, pulao, khichdi, biryani (economical), catering, thali servings

Its ability to remain fluffy and separate after cooking makes it suitable for both traditional and modern rice dishes.

Market Position and Demand

Sharbati rice sits in the mid-range to budget category of long-grain aromatic rice. It serves as a cost-effective alternative to premium Basmati and is widely accepted by consumers who seek Basmati-like properties at a lower price.

Domestic Market:

  • Sold in both loose and branded formats

  • Preferred in households, restaurants, and bulk cooking facilities

  • Used by caterers for weddings, events, and religious ceremonies

Export Market:

  • Popular in Middle Eastern, African, and Southeast Asian countries

  • Demand driven by affordability, aroma, and Basmati-like look

  • Countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Yemen, Qatar, Kenya, and Bangladesh are top importers

Due to its consistent appearance and performance, many traders mix Sharbati rice with true Basmati or offer it under house brands targeted at price-conscious consumers.

Processing and Milling Behavior

Sharbati performs well in rice mills and is suitable for both raw milling and parboiling (sela) processes. With modern machinery like Sortex and Polishers, it can be processed to achieve high-quality visual and cooking standards.

  • Head Rice Recovery: 55–60% (with proper handling)

  • Sorting Compatibility: Excellent

  • Breakage Rate: Low (when adequately aged and processed)

  • Color Polishing: Creamy to bright white (raw), golden yellow (sela)

  • Bagging: 1kg to 50kg packs, available in jute, PP, or non-woven pouches

Farmer and Trader Advantages

For Farmers:

  • High Yield with lower cultivation cost

  • Shorter Duration allows for early harvesting and next crop planning

  • Better Disease Resistance compared to traditional Basmati

  • Steady Market Demand with minimal risk

  • Less Water-Intensive crop, suitable for areas with limited irrigation

For Traders and Exporters:

  • Large Supply Base across northern and central India

  • Consistent Pricing and lower volatility than premium Basmati

  • Ease of Handling and processing

  • Suitable for Branding and private labeling

  • Popular for Blending and bulk catering markets

Conclusion

Sharbati Basmati Rice is a shining example of how affordability and quality can go hand in hand. With its moderate aroma, long grains, soft texture, and dependable cooking results, it has earned a loyal following across homes, hotels, and global markets.

 

Whether you’re a farmer seeking better returns, a miller looking for high-yield raw material, or an exporter targeting bulk buyers, Sharbati rice delivers consistent value and consumer satisfaction. It plays a key role in filling the gap between daily rice and premium Basmati, offering the essence of tradition at a reasonable price.