Pronunciation: [kɛsˈɑːɹi] (IPA) 
The word "khesari" is a type of legume commonly found in South Asia. It is pronounced as /kʰeːsəri/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The spelling of this word can be confusing as it is also spelled as "khesari" or "khichadi" in some regions. The correct spelling, however, is "khesari". This legume is highly nutritious and is a popular ingredient in a variety of dishes such as dal and soups.
Khesari is a commonly used term that refers to a leguminous plant known scientifically as Lathyrus sativus. It belongs to the pea family, Fabaceae, and is an annual herbaceous plant native to South Asia and parts of East Africa. Khesari is also known by various other names including grass pea, chicken pea, and Indian pea.
The plant is widely cultivated for its edible seeds, which are an important source of nutrition and sustenance, especially in regions where other food crops may be scarce or inadequate. Khesari seeds are rich in protein and contain essential amino acids, making them an important dietary staple for many indigenous communities. However, it is important to note that excessive consumption of khesari seeds or their products can lead to a neurological disorder called Lathyrism, characterized by muscle weakness and paralysis.
In addition to its nutritional value, khesari is also used in various traditional culinary preparations, including soups, stews, and dal dishes. The plant is known for its hardiness, adaptability to diverse environmental conditions, and ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, making it a valuable crop for soil fertility management.
Overall, khesari is an important leguminous plant widely cultivated for its edible seeds, contributing to food security and sustenance in many regions. However, caution should be exercised in its consumption to prevent adverse health effects.
The word khesari is derived from the Hindi language, specifically from the term Khesari dal, which refers to a particular type of legume. The term khesari itself is said to be derived from the Sanskrit word khesara, which is associated with the same legume. There is no definitive explanation for the origin of the Sanskrit term khesara.
