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The greatness of a culture can be found in its festivals. Isn’t it? I feel truly blessed to be a part of such a culturally rich country, India. Apart from this, ancient traditions and religious diversity, India takes pride to be known for the colourful festivals celebrated throughout the year. Stepping in the new month of August which has a plethora of delightful festivals will bond each one of us with love and togetherness. So, before you get high on spirit and gear up for the fun-filled and vibrant ride of these special days, I thought aapka muh meetha kara diya jaye. These recipes are a bouquet of best of traditional sweet recipes from the length and breadth of our country. 

Here you go! 

Ganesh Chaturthi

Praying to Lord Ganesha before starting any work is a common thing for us Indians. But, did you know where it all began? Back in 1893, freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak urged people to come together and celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi. As he wanted to inculcate the feeling of patriotism against the British efforts of discouraging social gatherings. A 10-day festival, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in the grandest manner in Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Mumbai’s Lalbaug cha Raja has the longest immersion procession, lasting for approximately 24 hours – starting from 10 AM till next day morning. 

Join me to prepare some of the most favourite recipes of Bappa this Ganesh Chaturthi.

Modak: There are umpteen varieties of modak, the favourite of vighna harta. Here’s another version to make it a bit more special this time. Try these chocolate ones, you’ll definitely love them.  

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Chocolate-Modak-Pressure-Cooking.html

Motichoor Laddoo: Motichoor Laddoo is a favourite festive treat across India. Fried besan pearls coming together to form delish laddoos is a favourite of all. Admit that you too hold a soft corner for this awesome mithai. Don’t miss on this one. 

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Motichoor-Laddoo.html

Janmashtami

The stories of natkhat kanha known for his innocent love for makhan and denying stealing it every time he was caught by maiyya is what we all have grown up on. With dahi handi marking the celebrations of this festival dedicated to Lord Krishna in Maharashtra to fasting, praying, singing and preparing traditional food in Mathura and Vrindavan – Janmashtami is an important part of our religion across our country.  

Chaliye phir Krishna ko yaad karein with these recipes for this auspicious day.

Peda: Do read on this recipe which is coming right from the famous Mathura nagri, traditionally offered to Lord Krishna on Janmashtami.

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Mathura-ka-Peda-Mithai.html

Rabdi: Rabdi makes everything heavenly. Especially during festivals, it gets all the attention and makes the food experience rich and worthy. 

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Rabdi---SK-Khazana.html

Onam

Like Ganesh Chaturthi, Onam is the harvest festival and also a 10-day festival celebrated with endless joy, pomp and splendour in Kerala. The most famous thing about this festival is the traditional vegetarian meal prepared, mostly for lunches, called the sadhya. Each household prepares it and serves around 26 dishes of different varieties on a banana leaf! Onam also celebrates the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. This king is believed to pay a visit every year to witnesses whether his devotees are living happily or not. There is a wide range of festivities, rituals and customs associated with this festival – pulikali (tiger dance), pookkalam (flower rangoli), boat races, fireworks, etc. Gifts form an inseparable part of the festivities. 

Let’s not miss the indispensable sweets which make this festival super special.

Semiya Payasam: The most important and best delights of Onam. It leaves it footprints till people look forward to celebrating the festival next year. 

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Semiya-Payasam.html

Banana Halwa: It is one of the most relished desserts during Onam – simple yet elegant and super delectable. Do give it a try if you haven’t chanced upon this one yet.

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Raw-Banana-Halwa--Sk-Khazana.html

Teej

Teej festival signifies the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is celebrated majorly in Bihar, Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab. As part of the festivities, women dress their best in traditional clothes, beautify their hands with mehndi and enjoy the sawan ka jhula. There are 3 kinds of Teej namely Hariyali Teej, which was celebrated in July this year, Karjari and Hartalika Teej are on their way. 

Ghevar: Ghevar is the jaan of Teej, with its presence showing much more before the commencement of the festival. While the beautiful array of varieties of this sweet stacked in shops is a sheer sight of pleasure, you don’t need to step out in these times to enjoy it right at your home. This recipe is what you should try. 

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Ghevar---SK-Khazana.html

Malpua: If you ask me how can I describe the feeling of heaven on Earth, I would say it’s closer to how I feel eating a Malpua! Missed it all the while? What’s the worry when this recipe is just here for you!

https://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe/Gulabi-Malpua-Sanjeev-Kapoor-Kitchen-FoodFood.html