Navratri is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar, celebrated annually in honour of the supreme goddess Durga, identified for being armed in her 10 hands. In Navratri, “Nav” means nine, and “Ratri” means night. Usually falling between September and October, this festival lasts for a total of nine days. This year, the festival starts on October 3 and ends on October 12.
During this festival, people celebrate the mother goddess for killing the buffalo demon, Mahishasura who was given the gift of immortality and celebrate the victory of good over evil. Although people embrace this festival by fasting and dancing, the tradition of eating and making wholesome delicacies, including sweet and savoury has been passed on for decades. The festival of Navratri brings out the symphony of flavours, promising a culinary journey like no other. Let’s take a look at the 6 most exciting and popular foods that you can try during this festive season.
Jalebi
It’s an age-old tradition for Hindus to indulge in the sweet dish of Jalebi every Navratri and Dussehra (the end of Navratri and celebration of Lord Rama’s victory over the demon King Ravana). Eating Jalebi is also a cultural tradition as it is believed that Lord Rama was quite fond of it. This crisp and juicy sweet is spiral and made with all-purpose flour, gram flour, and sugar syrup. A must-have.
Sweet Potato Chaat
Sweet potato chaat is a popular snack eaten during Navratri. Also known as Shakarkandi chaat, this dish provides all the necessary nutrients that are needed during fasting. It is a filling dish made of sweet potato, chaat masala, tamarind chutney, lemon juice, and peanuts. A great snack option if you ask us.
Fafda
Eating Fafda during the festival of Navratri is considered important as it is made using besan (gram flour) which the Hindu deity Lord Hanuman loved. Fafda is a salty and crunchy snack eaten together with Jalebi. Learn how you can make it at home, here.
Sabudana Khichdi
Sabudana Khichdi makes for a wholesome and filling snack eaten during the Hindu religious festival of Navratri. This nutrient-rich food which is made with tapioca pearls, whole spices, roasted peanuts, potatoes, and fresh curry leaves. It is also a dish of choice during fasting.
Dhokla
Dhokla is a famous and traditional Indian steamed cake that originated in the Indian state of Gujarat (cue in the Spongebob memes) This savoury and versatile dish has been an integral part of India’s culinary landscape for generations and is also known for its health benefits. During Navratri, dhokla made from ingredients like barnyard millet, buckwheat flour, or tapioca pearls.
Sabudana Kheer
Sabudana Kheer has a spiritual significance. This sweet dish is often offered as prasad (food offered to the gods) in temples during the festival of Navratri. Rich in taste and made with tapioca pearls, milk, sugar, and nuts, this dessert is also a great source of energy during fasting.
Images: Pinterest
