Kerala Updates Anganwadi Menu After Viral Video of Child Requesting Biryani

In a heartwarming example of how a child’s innocent wish can lead to real change, the Kerala government has officially updated the food menu in Anganwadis after a toddler’s video went viral on social media.

Biryani and Pulao Now Included in Anganwadi Meals

Kerala's Minister for Women and Child Development, Veena George, announced the revamped menu during the inauguration of the new academic year for Anganwadis. For the first time, a joint menu has been introduced across all childcare centers, developed through consultations at multiple administrative levels.

The revised menu now features egg biryani and vegetable pulao, in addition to traditional items. According to the minister, the update aims to improve nutritional quality while also introducing variety and reducing the intake of salt and sugar.

It All Began With One Child’s Craving

The change was inspired by a viral video featuring a three-year-old boy named Shanku, who candidly told his mother he wanted "biryani and chicken fry" instead of the regular upma served at his Anganwadi. His mother recorded the clip and posted it on Instagram, where it quickly gained traction. Minister Veena George later shared the video herself, promising to consider the child's request.

That promise has now been fulfilled.

Minister Keeps Her Word

Veena George confirmed that the updated menu is not only a response to the child’s request but also part of a broader initiative to enhance the health and happiness of children attending Anganwadis.

“We have revised the menu keeping both nutrition and taste in mind. Items like milk and eggs, previously given twice a week, will now be served three times a week,” she said.

Shanku Says “Thank You”

Shanku, who attends an Anganwadi in Alappuzha district, thanked the minister after learning his favorite dish had been added. His mother, Aswathi, expressed surprise and gratitude: “We never expected such a quick decision. Shanku is overjoyed. He wasn’t happy with the same upma every day, but biryani brings him joy.”

What’s on the New Menu?

The updated Anganwadi meal plan includes a wide variety of nutritious and culturally familiar foods:

• Monday: Milk, Pidi (rice flour balls), Kozhukatta (steamed rice sweet with coconut and jaggery); lunch with rice, green gram curry, and spinach.

• Tuesday: Nutritious laddu, egg biryani or pulao, fruit cup, and ragi ada (millet pancake).

• Other Days: Options like soya dry fry, idli-sambar, puttu, omelet, and rice with jaggery and banana.

This change not only improves the nutritional intake of young children but also brings joy — all sparked by one child’s honest feedback.