The Secret "Thiruttu" Masala: My Grandmother’s Stolen Spice Blend
dealt with "bold" themes (extramarital affairs, voyeurism), the term "masala" is sometimes used euphemistically for films or content with adult themes or "spicy" scenes. Food & Spices Tamil Thiruttu Masala
Decades ago, mobile food carts were illegal in many parts of Chennai and other cities. Vendors would set up shop in the dead of night or in hidden alleyways to avoid the police (the Maamis and Maamas jokingly referred to these hidden spots as secret palaces). Another popular legend suggests that the food was so delicious it felt like the vendors had "stolen" the royal recipes from a palace kitchen. Tamil Thiruttu Masala