History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c26.s3.t2.5

v1.c26.s3.t2.5

*Production and types of liquor*: Though it is made clear, by contrasting it with *sura*, that *soma*, was not an alcoholic liquor but an exhilarant (Prakash, Om, 1961, pp. 7-33, Sell, 1933, *Notes* pp. 152-170), its elaborately ritualistic production technology can conveniently be noted here (Vesci, 1985, pp.215, 69, 32, Sen, 1978, Three plates). The material, brought from a mountainous area, was first washed, and then either crushed between grinding stones (*grāvan*), or pounded in a mortar and pestle (*ulukhala and musala*) using both hands, while sprinking water and sometimes squeezing the material to assist extraction. The *grāvan* stones were placed above four holes connected underground; the resounding echo of the grinding was poetically compared to the lowing of bulls. The liquid was filtered through a strainer of sheep’s wool (*pavitra*) held above specified jars or wooden tubs. The amber, shining liquid was mixed with curds, ghee, milk, water, honey or grains before being drunk by the priests and the person making the sacrifice.