What is "kadaknath"

The Kadaknath is an Indian breed of chicken local to the Madhya Pradesh area, where it is known as "Kali masi" ("fowl having black flesh"). The Kadaknath is popular mainly for its adaptability, and the good-tasting black meat, which is believed to infuse vigor. Its color stems from the deposition of melanin pigment.

The birds are completely black: black plumage with a greenish iridescence, black legs and toe nails, black beak and tongue, black comb and wattles, black meat and bones and even dark organs.

Due to the meat's alleged medicinal properties, it is in high demand. To save the breed from extinction, the state government started a Kadaknath poultry breeding program involving 500 BPL families, who were to receive financial support and assistance.