Ganesh Chaturthi is an auspicious festival which is celebrated on a major scale in the state of Maharashtra and some other parts of South India. It is also called as “Vinayaka Chaturthi”, “Gnaesh Utsav” or simply “Ganpati” among the locals depending on the region it is celebrated in.
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Ganesha, the God of wisdom with a belief that the Lord bestows His blessings on His devotees on this day. Ganesh Chaturthi falls on the fourth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada around August or September. The occasion becomes very lively and enthusiastic with the devotional songs, dances and drum beats being a part of the procession observed by the devotees of Lord Ganesha, as a part of the festivities.
The celebrations are grand and the preparation starts one month in advance, with great enthusiasm. The festival starts with the installation of beautifully sculpted Ganesha idols in homes and mandaps. These idols are decorated beautifully and show religious themes. The occasion also sees various cultural events being held everywhere, in which people participate with interest. After celebration, the time of farewell comes and the idol of the beloved God is immersed in water. The celebration ends with the immersion, accompanied by loud shouts of 'Ganapati Bappa Moraya'.
My friend Veena has described the history of Ganesh Chaturthi in a very simple and informative manner, check out her post if you are keen to know more about the festival.
Since most of my friends here are from Maharshtra and South India, I get to taste a lot of special sweets and desserts during these days. On the basis of what information I have on this festival, I have listed some easy and simple sweet recipes for the festival, most of which can be prepared under 30 minutes with no preparation or planning ahead. Even if you do not celebrate this festival, these items are a must try if you are fond of Indian sweets.
Puran Poli - The very authentic stuffed sweet bread from Maharashtra, made of Chana Dal
Dates and Sesame Poli - Another version of Poli with dates and sesame sweet stuffing
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Mango Coconut Barfi - Delicious Kopra Pak with mango flavours
Microwave Besan Laddoo - Besan Laddoo made in microwave, so easy and simple
Microwave Malayi Peda - Milk fudge prepared under 10 minutes, no preps required
Kaju Barfi - Vegan Fugde made of cashews and cardamom
Sesame Laddoo - Quick energy bites on the go
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Gulab Jamun - The ever so popular sweet balls dunked in delicious syrup
Gulkand Kheer - Rice pudding, with a special twist added
Rice Kheer - Authentic rice pudding, made using slow cooking method
Sabudana Vermicelli Kheer - Rich and creamy kheer, using double cream
Cabbage Payasam - No one could guess the main ingredient in this kheer
Moong Dal Payasam - Protein rich and deliciously smooth
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Banana Halwa - A healthy option for serving as Prasad and also for family treats
Almond Halwa - Super food included in your diet, make it vegan by replacing ghee with coconut oil
Gajar Halwa - Ever so popular dish, made low fat with a twist
Mango Sheera - Semolina Halwa with mango and carrot puree
Pineapple Kesari - Semolina halwa with pineapple added, best for kids
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Gulkand Shreekhand - Maharshtra's most loved dessert made shortcut way using Greek yoghurt
Mango Shreekhand - Amrakhand, explained step by step instructions on hung curd
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Wish you all happy festival and the year ahead ! :)