Whether you savour a traditional modak or puran poli, the essence of Ganesh Chaturthi remains in its iconic recipes.
Festivals in India are just not complete
without the food, and Ganesh Chaturthi is no exception. Now as the festival has kicked off on August 27 and the spotlight remains on Lord Ganesha, it cannot go unnoticed that his love for sweets inspires a culinary extravaganza across India. During the 10 day celebration, kitchens are buzzing with
traditional recipes passed down through generations.
Modak: The Main Offering
If one dish that is associated the most with Ganesh Chaturthi, it’s the modak. It is believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favourite, and the dumpling-like sweet is in fact offered during prayers. Post that, it is shared with family and friends.
Ukadiche Modak (Steamed Modak): It is more popular in Maharashtra, and the version is made with rice flour dough filled with grated coconut, jaggery, and cardamom, It is finally steamed before consumption.
Fried Modak: These modaks use wheat flour and are then deep-fried, offering a crunchy alternative to the steamed modak.
Innovations: Contemporary chefs are now making modaks with chocolate, saffron, dry fruits.
Puran Poli: Sweet Flatbread
Another festive staple that is eaten during Ganesh Chaturthi is the puran poli. It is a stuffed flatbread filled with a mixture of chana dal, jaggery, nutmeg, and ghee. It is then served with milk or ghee, and is massively popular in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
Kozhukattai: Tamil Nadu’s Divine Offering
In the south, kozhukattai, which is similar to the modak, uses regional flavours. It is made from rice flour and fillings like coconut-jaggery or sesame seeds are used. Its steamed version is offered to Lord Ganesha. In Tamil Nadu, homes prepare dozens of kozhukattais, and the air is full with aroma of coconut and ghee.
Other Festival Favourites
Patholi (Goa): Made of rice flour and coconut-jaggery mixture, it is steamed in turmeric leaves.
Churma Ladoo (Rajasthan & Gujarat): Wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee are rolled into laddoos, and offered in temples.
Sundal (Tamil Nadu): It is a savoury dish made from chickpeas or lentils and then tempered with coconut, curry leaves, and mustard seeds.
Modern Twists for 2025
With urban kitchens trying out festive recipes, innovations with ready-to-make modak kits, no-bake laddoos, and air-fryer puran polis are being done. Meanwhile, vegan and gluten-free versions of modaks are now also available.
Nonetheless, what makes Ganesh Chaturthi special is not just the taste of these recipes but also the sense of community around them. Families gather to prepare modaks while neighbours exchange sweets, amping up the spirit of generosity.
In Ganesh Chaturthi 2025, whether you eat a traditional ukadiche modak or experiment with chocolate-stuffed puran poli, the essence of celebrating devotion through flavour remains the same.
