Celebrate the Spirit of Diwali with Flavours from Every Corner of India

Diwali in India is more than a festival of lights; it is a season of warmth, joy, and delicious indulgence. Every home glows with diyas, every kitchen fills with the aroma of ghee and sugar, and every family comes together to share stories, laughter, and love. What makes this celebration truly special is the way each state adds its own flavour to the festivities, turning Diwali into a colourful mosaic of regional traditions and time-honoured recipes.

In this journey through Desh Ki Diwali, we explore how every corner of India celebrates the festival with its signature sweets and snacks that reflect the essence of culture, community, and nostalgia. These are not just recipes, they are memories served on a plate, connecting us to our roots and reminding us of the shared joy that brings us all together.

Here’s a list of recipes that bring alive the true taste of Diwali across India:

Karanjee – Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, Diwali celebrations feel incomplete without 'Karanjee'. This golden, crescent-shaped sweet is filled with a rich mixture of coconut, jaggery, and dry fruits before being fried to a perfect crisp. As it sizzles, the sweet aroma fills the house, wrapping everyone in festive warmth. Preparing Karanjee is a cherished family ritual where every member takes part in shaping, filling, and frying. The first bite offers a delightful crunch, followed by the soft sweetness that melts in your mouth. This recipe is more than just a festive sweet; it is a memory of togetherness, laughter, and the joy that makes a Maharashtrian Diwali truly special.

Malpua – Bihar

In Bihar, Diwali mornings come alive with the comforting aroma of 'Malpua' being fried in ghee. These golden, syrup-soaked pancakes are made with a simple mix of flour, milk, and sugar, yet their flavour feels rich and festive. As the batter hits the hot pan, it turns into soft, fluffy rounds with crisp edges that glisten with sweetness once dipped in sugar syrup. The kitchen buzzes with happy chatter as families gather, waiting for the next batch to be ready. Served warm and often topped with creamy rabri, Malpua is the kind of sweet that fills hearts with warmth, love, and the simple joy of celebration.

Mawa Kachori – Rajasthan

In Rajasthan, Diwali shines with royal splendour, and 'Mawa Kachori' adds a touch of grandeur to every festive table. This rich and indulgent sweet has a crisp outer layer that hides a delicious filling of mawa, sugar, and chopped nuts. Once fried to a perfect golden brown, each kachori is soaked in sugar syrup, giving it a glossy, irresistible finish. The contrast between the crunchy outside and the soft, creamy centre makes every bite unforgettable. These delicious kachori reflect Rajasthan’s royal traditions and love for rich flavours, turning every Diwali gathering into a feast full of sweetness and joy.

Also Read: Diwali Begins in the Kitchen: Early Prep with Dry Snacks

Chorafali – Gujarat

In Gujarat, the cheerful spirit of Diwali is matched by the crisp sound of 'Chorafali' frying in kitchens across the state. This light, puffy snack is made using a blend of gram flour and urad dal, seasoned gently with spices, and deep-fried until it turns perfectly crisp. Once dusted with chilli powder, it becomes a delightful mix of crunch and spice that everyone loves to munch on. Families often prepare large batches together, chatting and laughing as they work, before sharing tins full of Chorafali with friends and neighbours. It is a snack that brings people closer, capturing the joy, warmth, and lively energy of a true Gujarati Diwali.

Murukku – Tamil Nadu

In Tamil Nadu, Diwali preparations begin days in advance with the making of 'Murukku'. This crisp, spiral-shaped snack is made with rice flour and lentil flour, seasoned with a touch of spice, and fried till beautifully golden. The moment Murukku hits the oil, its tempting aroma fills the entire home, signalling that the festival is near. Making Murukku is often a family affair, with everyone helping in shaping and frying while waiting eagerly to taste the first one. Each crunchy bite brings a burst of flavour that pairs perfectly with evening tea or festive sweets. This recipe truly represents the joy of sharing, and the spirit of Diwali in Tamil Nadu.

Sandesh – West Bengal

In West Bengal, Diwali comes along with Kali Puja, and 'Sandesh' takes centre stage in the celebrations. Made from fresh chhena and sugar, this soft, melt-in-the-mouth sweet is shaped with care and often flavoured with cardamom, saffron, or rose essence. Each piece is light, creamy, and delicately sweet, reflecting Bengal’s unmatched love for art and flavour. Making Sandesh is a gentle, mindful process that needs both patience and affection. It is often prepared as an offering during the festival, symbolising devotion and gratitude. Every bite of Sandesh captures the soul of Bengal, filled with warmth, creativity, and a heartfelt connection between food and festivity.

I hope these recipes serve you not just as food, but as memories, rituals, and moments of joy shared with loved ones. They connect us to our roots, celebrate the diversity of India, and remind us that Diwali is as much about the people and traditions as it is about the lights and festivities. This Diwali, let these flavours bring warmth to your home, happiness to your gatherings, and a taste of India’s rich heritage to your celebrations.