Viral Video Gets Biryani on Kerala Anganwadi Menu
In February 2025, a 4-year-old boy named Shanku made a simple, heartfelt request: “I don’t want upma. I want biryani.” His mother, Aswathy Ashok, recorded the moment and shared it on Instagram, intending it only for family. But the video unexpectedly went viral, capturing the attention of parents, social media users and even government officials.
Among those who took notice was Kerala’s Women and Child Development Minister, Veena George, who shared the video herself and promised to look into the child’s request.
Key changes in the new Anganwadi food menu:
- Egg biryani and pulao added for variety and taste
- Eggs and milk increased to 3 times a week (previously twice)
- Focus on balanced nutrition: More protein, fewer added sugars and less salt
- Unified statewide implementation for consistent quality
This is the first time a standardized menu is being introduced across Kerala’s Anganwadi network.
Why It Matters
While Shanku’s request was lighthearted, the underlying issue was real: monotony in food choices at anganwadis, often leading to children avoiding meals. Upma, though nutritious, was served too frequently and many children simply didn’t enjoy it.
The updated menu doesn’t just add excitement to the plate it meets important nutritional standards set for growing children, especially those in the 3–6 age group.
By including protein-rich options like eggs and milk more often and offering flavorful but balanced meals like biryani and pulao, the new plan aims to:
- Support physical growth and brain development
- Encourage better eating habits
- Reduce the risk of micronutrient deficiencies
- Make children look forward to their meals
Meet the Boy Behind the Change
Shanku, whose official name is Trijal S. Sundhar, is currently living in Qatar with his parents. His mother explained that the viral video was not a planned campaign. “I often post photos and videos of Shanku for his father to see, who works in Qatar. This was just another moment he happened to be eating biryani at home and expressed what he felt,” she said.
Shanku developed a dislike for upma after it was served daily at his Anganwadi in Kerala. His personal favourites? Porridge and black-eyed peas. His family, originally from Prayar near Oachira in Alappuzha district, will return to Kerala in mid-July when Shanku is set to start school.
Conclusion
This change is more than a viral trend. It shows that listening to children’s preferences when aligned with expert nutrition planning, can lead to effective policy improvements. Kerala’s response highlights a valuable public health message: healthy food can and should be appealing.
The revised Anganwadi menu is a step toward making sure every child not only gets the nutrients they need but also enjoys every bite of it.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
