Batan (stone)

The batán is a kitchen utensil used to process different kinds of foods in South American, Andean and Indian cuisine.

Depending on the use, the uña's weight can be slightly held back, allowed to move freely, or used to apply additional pressure.

The rocking movements also vary depending on the application, and the grinding is done dry or with water or oil.

[1] In Andean households many different dishes are prepared in this manner, in rural and urban areas.

In Odisha, it is called sila puaa where it is also worshipped as Bhu Devi or mother Earth during traditional Odia weddings and the Raja festival.