There’s nothing surprising about people coming up with unusual food combinations. We have seen many such experiments over the years, from Maggi with Fanta to dosa with Nutella. Now, another unexpected pairing has grabbed attention after an X user called idli and chai the “best combination ever.” The post quickly went viral and even caught the attention of politician Shashi Tharoor. Here’s what he had to say about it!
Shashi Tharoor Reacts To Idli Chai Combo
Oh, I see what you’re doing here! Aside from provoking me, that is.
I have to be honest: that idli looks a bit too solid and dense for my liking. And the discolouration in the pic is not very appetising. There’s something about a perfectly soft, snowy-white, fluffy idli that… https://t.co/O9GsGAGPa6
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) June 7, 2026
X user Sakshi (@333maheshwariii) took to her social media handle to share an unexpected food combination that she swears by. Her post featured an idli and a cup of chai, along with the caption, “best combination to ever exist: Chai and Idli.” The unusual pairing quickly caught the attention of social media users and soon went viral. It even prompted a reaction from politician Shashi Tharoor.
Responding to the post, Tharoor said, “Oh, I see what you’re doing here! Aside from provoking me, that is.” He also added that the idli in the picture looked too dense and solid for his liking. He explained that he prefers idlis that are soft, fluffy, snowy white, and light in texture. According to him, the idli shown in the photograph appeared chewy and rubbery, making it far from an ideal idli.
As a chai lover, Shashi Tharoor said he prefers to enjoy tea separately rather than dipping food into it. He explained that he likes having chai alongside a meal or after eating, instead of mixing the two. He also added that a soft idli would dissolve if dipped into hot chai.
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Internet Shares Reactions
The post featuring idlis and chai as the “best combination to ever exist” has gone viral on social media. The unusual pairing sparked a debate online, with many users expressing their disagreement with the combination.
One user wrote, “I have never tried this.”
Another commented, “Isse acha isko fry karke kha leti.”
A third user said, “Is this an idli or a rock? Preparing idlis involves many steps before it reaches the plate. One reason it is usually eaten with sambar is to add protein and provide energy for the day. So, follow the leaders of idlis, South Indians.”
Another netizen added, “This is the worst-looking idli I have ever seen. Sambar and coconut chutney go with idli, while chai or coffee should be enjoyed on the side.”
What are your thoughts on this? Tell us in the comments below!
Cover Image Courtesy: X/ @333maheshwariii & Flickr/ Chatham House
FAQs
Which food combination is not accepted by Shashi Tharoor?
Shashi Tharoor does not approve of the viral chai-and-idli combination and prefers enjoying them separately.
What does Shashi Tharoor believe would happen if a soft idli were dipped in chai?
Shashi Tharoor believes a soft idli would quickly dissolve when dipped into hot chai.
What is the latest food combination to go viral online?
The recent viral food combination is idli and chai, which sparked a debate across social media.