Recent studies have suggested that comfort food isn’t what we think it is. Instead of it being food that offers us emotional solace, comfort food is supposed to instantly uplift our moods by evoking memories of a comfortable childhood when we were well provided for. When it comes to Punjabi food, most of us will immediately conjure images of paronthas laden with white butter, frothy milk, hot saag and ‘churi’ – all of these served lovingly by very indulgent mothers. Then again, the younger lot might instead be drooling over double cheese pizzas, juicy burgers or cheesy cheesecakes. If this is indeed the case, our traditional food items are in grave danger of being forgotten by the progeny. In this month’s cover story, we re-visit the tastes that reflect Punjab’s rich culture, robust physiques and unrelenting spirit. There will be dishes that are prepared regularly at your homes or there will be names that you have perhaps never heard of, prepared in the interiors of the state. Relish old memories, brush up your knowledge and treat your children to the nutrition and unique flavours of Punjabi cuisine, so that they too revel in the comforting knowledge of home-cooked food. In other segments, there are interactions with men of repute, which enlighten and inform. Panchkula Deputy Commissioner Vivek Atray, Author Shovon Chowdhury and Actor Jimmy Sheirgill. Our vibrant photo essay this month will help you feel the cool air of Sikkim, at least in pictures. Our columnist Tahira Kashyap helps you deal with the delicate matter. Happy reading!