Snake gourd is a vegetable that is grown by many in South India in their backyards and terrace gardens. It is the only vegetable that grows in different shapes and sizes. Sometimes narrow, twisted and elongated. It is a easy vegetable in every way. Popularly known as Chichinda or Padwal in Hindi, Potlakaaya in Telugu, Chichinga in Bengali, Pudalankaai in Tamil and Padavalanga in Malayalam is used to prepare many varieties of dishes. It goes well with rice.