Pomegranate is the large globes, shiny red berry of a plant that grows as a shrub or as a small tree. Inside the berry are hard, angular seeds, covered with a juicy, red, pink yellowish-white, sweet, astringent acid pulp. The seed, when sun dried or dehydrated, constitutes the condiment.

Pomegranate is an ancient fruit symbolising plenty and prosperity.

Apart from its culinary value in a wide range of foods and beverages, pomegranate is endowed with excellent medicinal properties. For example, it is often prescribed for patients convalescing from diarrhea. 

Pomegranate grows wild in the warm valleys and outer hills of the Himalayas. It is also commercially cultivated throughout India, particularly in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

Indian pomegranates are of many types, 'Bedan' and 'Kandhari' are best in quality and popular internationally.

Anardana

'Anardana' comprises the dried seeds of pomegranate. It is used as an acidulant in Indian curries.