The name Samai is actually a Tamil word for this lesser known member of the millet family. It is known as Kutki or Shavan in Hindi, Gajro or Kuri in Gujarati, and Sava in Marathi. One of the few cereal crops that does not demand much from the soil, Samai can grow well in the poorest of soils and with little rainfall.

Little Millet Pongal (Saamai Pongal) Millets can become a regular substitute for rice at home. Stock up on a variety of millets and use them for making South Indian breakfast items like idli, dosa, pongal etc.