Carry an onion in your pocket: Jyotiraditya Scindia's mantra to beat summer heat

Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia, currently on a three-day visit to Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri district, sparked attention on Sunday after offering a traditional remedy to cope with extreme summer heat. Addressing a public gathering in Shivpuri’s Pichhore during the inauguration of a new tehsil building, Scindia advised people to carry an onion as protection against rising temperatures.

"I may look young, but my soul is old; carry an onion in your pocket, and nothing will happen to you," he said, while displaying an onion taken from his vehicle to illustrate his point.

The remark drew a mix of curiosity and discussion, especially as large parts of India are battling an intense heatwave.

Elaborating on his personal habits, Scindia emphasised his preference for avoiding air conditioning even during peak summer.

"I don't use air conditioning in my car, nor do I sit in an air-conditioned environment. And when people ask me, even in the 51-degree heat of May and June, I say, 'This is Chambal skin.' And let me tell you something else: I look a little young, but my soul is very old. Keep an onion in your pocket. Nothing will happen to you," he said.

He also referred to traditional practices, adding that such methods should not be forgotten as modern lifestyles evolve.

In Ayurveda, onions, rich in antioxidants, are considered to have "cooling" properties that may help balance body heat. This is why they’re commonly included in summer diets like salads and other foods.

INDIA WITNESSES EXTREME SUMMER HEAT

Scindia’s comments come at a time when temperatures across North India are soaring between 42 and 45 degrees Celsius, with some regions nearing even higher levels.

The ongoing heatwave has raised serious concerns about public health, particularly for those exposed to prolonged outdoor conditions.

Regions such as Uttar Pradesh and western Rajasthan are among the worst affected, with cities like Prayagraj and Barmer recording temperatures close to 48 degrees Celsius. Madhya Pradesh also experiences extremely hot temperatures at this time in the year.

In eastern India, states including Jharkhand and West Bengal are experiencing a combination of heat and humidity, increasing the heat index and making conditions feel even more oppressive.

Relief, however, may be on the horizon. Weather officials indicate that an approaching western disturbance is likely to bring dust storms and light rainfall by April 28.

This system, originating from the Mediterranean region, could temporarily ease temperatures and offer respite from the ongoing heatwave.

Until then, authorities continue to urge caution, advising people to stay hydrated, avoid peak sun exposure, and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.

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Inputs by Manoj Bhargav