chulha

A chulha, also known as an earthen stove or hearth, is a traditional cooking appliance commonly found in rural areas of India and other parts of South Asia. It is typically constructed from clay or mud, often mixed with straw or cow dung for reinforcement. The basic design involves an enclosed combustion chamber where fuel, such as wood, dung cakes, or agricultural waste, is burned to produce heat. This heat is then used for cooking, usually with pots or pans placed on top of the chulha.

Chulhas vary in design and size depending on regional customs and available materials. Some are simple, open-top structures, while others incorporate multiple openings for different pots or have chimneys to direct smoke away. The efficiency and smoke emission of chulhas can vary significantly. Traditional chulhas often produce substantial amounts of indoor air pollution, which can have adverse health effects, particularly for women and children who spend a lot of time in the kitchen.

Efforts have been made to develop improved chulha designs that are more fuel-efficient and reduce smoke. These improved models, often referred to as clean-burning chulhas, incorporate features like better insulation, optimized airflow, and improved chimney systems. The adoption of these cleaner technologies is a significant aspect of rural energy programs aimed at improving indoor air quality and reducing deforestation. Despite the prevalence of modern cooking fuels like LPG, chulhas remain an important cooking method for many households due to their affordability and the accessibility of fuel.