Chilli is a fruit of the Capsicum plant, ranging in color from green to red when ripe. It comes in different shapes, sizes, pungency levels, and moisture content.
Origin: Chillies are native to Central and South America and were introduced to India by Portuguese traders in the 15th–16th century.
Distribution: Today, India is the largest producer and exporter of chillies in the world. Major chilli-growing states in India include: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.