Dussehra, a widely celebrated Indian festival, brings to light varied Dussehra food traditions from across India. Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, universally celebrates the triumph of good over evil across India. While the essence of the festival remains constant, its culinary celebration varies dramatically from state to state. This article explores ten different food traditions related to Dussehra, showcasing the diverse palate of India.

The Role of Food in Dussehra Celebrations

Food doesn’t just add flavor to Dussehra celebrations; it also carries deep cultural meaning. Families unite to cook and relish traditional dishes, passed down from one generation to the next.

State-wise Dussehra Food Traditions: A Delicious Dive

1. West Bengal: Savor Mutton Curry and Luchi

In West Bengal, where people celebrate Dussehra as Durga Puja, a traditional meal often features mouthwatering mutton curry paired with crispy luchi.

2. Gujarat: Relish Fafda and Jalebi

In Gujarat, the festival brings with it the fervor of Garba dance. Here, the crispy fried snack, fafda, served with sweet jalebi, steals the show.

3. Tamil Nadu: Enjoy Protein-rich Sundal

In Tamil Nadu, the festival goes by the name of Golu. Sundal, made from assorted legumes like chickpeas and lentils, serves as the go-to snack.

4. Maharashtra: Indulge in Puran Poli

Maharashtra pulls out all stops for Dussehra. Puran Poli, a flatbread stuffed with sweet lentil filling, usually features on the festive menu.

More Flavors from the Indian States

1. Karnataka: Taste Obbattu

In Karnataka, locals prepare Obbattu, also known as Holige. This sweet flatbread contains wheat flour, chana dal, and cardamom.

2. Himachal Pradesh: Try Unique Babru

Up north, in Himachal Pradesh, families enjoy Babru, a stuffed bread made with black gram, during Dussehra.

3. Kerala: Experience Vijayadashami Sadya

Kerala, known for its elaborate feasts, serves a grand vegetarian feast called Vijayadashami Sadya.

4. Rajasthan: Get a Bite of Ghewar

In Rajasthan, Ghewar, a sweet deep-fried dessert, is the traditional festive delight.

5. Punjab: Love for Aloo Paratha

Punjabis celebrate Dussehra and Baisakhi together, often enjoying aloo paratha stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes.

6. Andhra Pradesh: Sweet Bobbatlu

In Andhra Pradesh, families commonly prepare and share Bobbatlu, a sweet flatbread similar to Puran Poli in Maharashtra.

India’s culinary diversity shines brightest during Dussehra. From West Bengal’s rich mutton curry to Gujarat’s sweet delights, each state brings unique dishes to the festival table.