Deepavali and the Importance of Food

Photo credit-Monali.mishra, Gajarhalwa, CC BY-SA 4.0

Anyone who visits the South Asian countries will certainly be captivated by their colourful festival galore. One of the most fascinating festivals in this part of the world is Deepavali, the Festival of Lights. It commemorates the victory of good over evil or light over darkness. Hindus around the world celebrate Deepavali lavishly and it is an official holiday in many countries including Sri Lanka, India, Singapore, and Nepal.

Deepavali is believed to have evolved from many harvest festivals held in India. It lasts for about five days, with celebrations held throughout temples and Hindu households. During the period that leads to Deepavali, people renovate and clean up their houses. They also adorn their homes with Rangoli – an art form typically made on the floor with coloured powder and sand. Clay lamps and candles would be lit during this festival denoting the dispelling of darkness and moving towards the light.

Apart from prayers, fireworks, and other customs that take place during Deepavali, the traditional food and sweets take a significant place during festivities. During the second day of Deepavali, Hindus visit their families and friends and take these sweets as gifts.

Now you might picture chocolates and other sorts of candy when thinking about sweets offered during Deepavali – which isn’t really the case. Indian sweets or mithai are considered as sweetmeats, with many using a vegetable and nutty base, which is condensed down with milk and sugar.

Some of the most popular and delectable sweets are as follows:

  • Laddu – These sphere-shaped sweets are made with flour, ghee, and sugar along with a sprinkling of raisins. The flour which can be used is 7 Star All-Purpose Flour.
Photo credit-Eatcha, Motichoor ka Ladoo – sweets of India, CC BY-SA 4.0
  • Gulab jamun – A beloved dessert that consists of fried balls of dough, semolina, and milk solids, gulab jamun is served while being soaked in aromatic syrup. To make this, using 7 Star All Purpose Flour along with 7 Star Semolina will be sure to bring out the flavour and essence of this dessert!
Photo credit- Pixabay,CC0

Leave a Reply

seven + fifteen =