By Shireen Jamooji
October 11, 2025
Today Google has decided to shine a spotlight on a popular South Indian breakfast and snack, idli. To join in the fun, here are some interesting facts you may not know about this rice and dal steamed treat.
In 2015, Indian astronauts aboard the International Space Station were treated to a taste of home when idlis were sent as part of their meal plan. It's the ultimate testament to their portability, shelf stability, and undeniable comfort-food status.
As shocking as it may sound, food historians have traced the modern idli recipe back to Indonesia and it was brought to India between 800 and 1200 CE by cooks (but we think its definitely desi now)
March 30 is known as World Idli Day, so while Google is celebrating the beloved food on October 11th, its official day is still a while away.
When rice was in short supply during World War II, Mavalli Tiffin Rooms in Bengaluru, swapping the staple for rava (semolina) which was more easily available. And so a legend was born.
Idlis have such global recognition that they've been included in major English dictionaries, including Oxford and Cambridge. Very fancy!
The magical fermentation process that gives idlis their signature fluffy texture also unlocks their nutritional benefits. This ancient technique enhances digestibility and boosts nutrient availability, making each bite work harder for your body.
Chennai-based M. Eniyavan, affectionately known as the "Idli Man" (who also created World Idli Day in 2015) holds the Guinness World Record for crafting the heaviest idli ever made, which weighed in at 124.8 kilograms.
Though usually one of the most affordable dishes on any menu, Chennai’s Adyar Ananda Bhavan has crafted a gourmet “superfood idli” made with extra-virgin olive oil, almonds, blueberries, ashwagandha, and shiitake mushroom extract for ₹500 per plate.