According to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, Gudi Padwa Festival marks the beginning of the New Year. This is for the people of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Goa. Also, for union territories like Daman and Diu, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. It is also a harvest festival and falls on March 30 in 2025. It is also one of the most important festivals for Maharashtrians. Just like food is an integral part of any celebration in India, same goes for Gudi Padwa too. So, here’s a signature compilation of 30 Gudi Padwa Food Recipes that can be easily made at home.
About Gudi Padwa Festival
Like I said, Gudi Padwa Festival is the New Year for Maharashtrians and the people of some other states. In Andhra Pradesh, this new year festival is known as Ugadi. For the Kannada Hindus of Karnataka, this day is Yugadi and for the Sindhi community, it is Cheti Chand.
Other states have it as:
- Poila Boishakh – West Bengal
- Bihu – Assam
- Navreh – for Kashmiri Pandits of Jammu and Kashmir
- Baisakhi – Punjab
- Vishu – Kerala
- Puthandu – Tamil Nadu
The dates may differ for each, but the essence of each of these remains the same. That is, it is the New Year for people of these regions.
Basically, the first day of the bright stage of the moon is also referred to as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra and ‘padvo’ in Konkani language.
The festivities of the Gudi Padwa Festival include cleaning of houses and plastering them with fresh cow-dung, especially in the villages. The city people involve in dusting and cleaning their homes.
Other traditions include making of elegant and colorful rangolis at entrances and doorways, which is synonymous with the colors of spring.
People also put up the ‘gudhi or gudi’ in their homes, dress up in new clothes, purchase gold or precious gems, feast on delicious Gudi Padwa Food and participate in other family gatherings.
Just like the Ugadi Pachadi, a similar dish is prepared on the auspicious occasion of the Gudi Padwa too. This is one of those very traditional Gudi Padwa recipes which has the sweet and bitter flavors from the jaggery (gur or gul) and neem leaves respectively.
Significance of Gudi Padwa Festival
The arrival of spring and harvesting of Rabi crops is what the significance of Gudi Padwa Festival is, in simple terms. As I mentioned before, a very important and significant feature of this festival is the ‘gudi or gudhi,’ that is a common sight at homes during this festival.
What is a gudi? Gudi is primarily an arrangement that is made up of a long bamboo, at the top end of which, a vibrant colorful silk cloth piece is tied.
Some mango or neem leaves together with a garland of flowers (usually marigold) are attached on the top. This is eventually enclosed with a metal kalash (pot, usually made of bronze, copper or silver) and hoisted outside homes.
This entire arrangement of a gudi basically signifies the conquest and win of King Shalivahana. In his honor, it was hoisted on his return to Paithan, a town in Aurangabad in Maharashtra. This gudi is also believed to ward off evils and bring happiness and good fortune in the house.
Also, before you head to the collection of Gudi Padwa Special Food recipes, read on to know some more legends that are associated with the festival of Gudi Padwa:
- In addition to King Shalivahana, the festival also commemorates the great Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who is also believed to be the inceptor of this festival through his victory march.
- According to a common folklore, Gudi Padwa was the day when Lord Brahma established days, weeks, months, years and created the universe.
- Another belief is that the day of Gudi Padwa signifies Lord Rama’s win and victory over evil by defeating the demon king Ravana. It was also on this day that he returned to the kingdom of Ayodhya.
Gudi Padwa Food
Along with the typical bitter-sweet prasad (symbolizing the journey of life with ups and downs) prepared on this day, families prepare other sumptuous Gudi Padwa Special Food and relish them with their loved ones.
Some of the most popular dishes in the feast are the puran poli and shrikhand. I have also mentioned about these recipes in my curated list of Gudi Padwa Food recipes below.
Here, in this list of dishes for Gudi Padwa Festival, I have shared recipes that you can easily make on this day. I have divided the list into classic and unique sweets/desserts, snacks and savories, mains and beverages.
Some of these recipes may have garlic and onion in them. You can skip these, if making a satvik meal or if offering the food to your deities.
Here’s wishing all my readers a happy and prosperous Gudi Padwa!
30 Gudi Padwa Recipes
Below are some of the Maharashtrian and some more Indian recipes that make up for a festive treat during the festival of Gudi Padwa. Like I said, these Gudi Padwa Food recipes can easily be prepared at home.
Many of the recipes for Gudi Padwa are hassle-free, easy to make, yet delectable. For some, you might have to put in extra efforts. This list consists of some traditional as well as not so classic recipes under different categories.
Gudi Padwa Sweets
Indulge in the rich flavors of Maharashtra with Puran Poli, where a velvety filling of sweetened, spiced lentils and jaggery is encased in a thin, golden-brown layer of dough, creating a heavenly combination of sweetness and warmth that’s perfect for festive celebrations.
Shrikhand, a Maharashtrian specialty, is a velvety smooth dessert made from hung curd or Greek yogurt, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts. This creamy delight is a burst of flavors. Served chilled, it is a heavenly treat capturing the essence of Maharashtrian cuisine.
Ukadiche Modak, a beloved Maharashtrian sweet, is a steamed dumpling that reveals a luscious filling of jaggery and grated coconut, infused with spices and seeds, all encased in a soft, melt-in-the-mouth rice flour shell. It’s a symbol of devotion and joy, bringing the festive spirit to life with its irresistible taste and the warmth of tradition.
Suji Ka Halwa, a North Indian classic, turns semolina into a warm, buttery treat that’s rich with ghee and sugar. Each spoonful is a symphony of textures, with soft, melt-in-your-mouth grains and the subtle crunch of roasted nuts. Perfectly spiced with cardamom, this comforting dessert offers a simple yet indulgent taste of tradition.
Rava Laddu, a Maharashtrian classic, captivates with its delightful blend of roasted semolina, ghee, and sugar, creating a sweet treat that’s both simple and exquisite. Enriched with the subtle fragrance of cardamom and the delightful crunch of nuts and raisins, it offers a symphony of flavors and textures.
The Indian dessert Basundi is a luscious concoction of reduced milk, condensed milk or sugar, and aromatic spices, simmered to perfection. Thick and creamy, with a hint of cardamom and saffron, each spoonful of this sweet dish is a luxurious indulgence that tantalizes the taste buds.
Maharashtrian-style Coconut Burfi is a delightful sweet that captures the essence of coconut, lovingly combined with creamy milk and sweetened to perfection with sugar. Each piece of this traditional treat offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience, where delicate coconut is infused with aromatic cardamom and saffron.
A delightful twist on the traditional Maharashtrian sweet, Fried Modak offers a crispy, golden-brown exterior that encases a rich and aromatic filling of jaggery and coconut. With each bite, you will experience a satisfying crunch, followed by the sweet, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of the spiced filling.
A 6-ingredient recipe, Mango Modak is a tropical twist on the traditional sweet that infuses the rich, creamy filling of modak with the vibrant and juicy flavor of ripe mangoes. Ideal for festive celebrations and mango lovers alike, it’s a delicious homage to the ‘king of fruits.’
The Maharashtrian specialty Karanji is a delightful crescent-shaped pastry filled with a fragrant mixture of coconut, sugar, nuts and spices. Crisp on the outside and rich on the inside, each bite of this sweet snack is a celebration of textures and flavors, evoking the warmth of festive gatherings.
Sabudana Kheer, a jewel of North Indian cuisine, transforms humble tapioca pearls into a delectable dessert by simmering it to perfection in milk infused with cardamom and saffron. This kheer is a celebration of simplicity and flavor.
Bobbatlu a.k.a. Holige in different regions, is a beloved South Indian sweet flatbread traditionally prepared during festivals and other special occasions. At its core, it is made from 2 primary components: the outer dough and the sweet filling, usually consisting of chana dal (split Bengal gram) and jaggery.
Snacks & Savories
Kothimbir Vadi are Maharashtrian-style savory fritters, infused with the freshness of cilantro (kothimbir) that unfold on your palate with a crunch and a burst of aromatic spices. Each bite is a harmonious blend of gram flour and cilantro, delicately spiced and steamed to perfection.
Savor the nostalgia of childhood with Shankarpali, a timeless Maharashtrian snack that brings families together with its irresistible aroma, delicate sweetness, and satisfying crunch, making it a cherished part of festive celebrations and everyday snacking.
Relish the tradition and craftsmanship of Chakli, a snack that embodies the rich culinary heritage of Maharashtra with its intricate design and bold flavors, making it a timeless favorite for festive celebrations and everyday indulgence alike.
Enjoy the tradition and warmth of the Maharashtrian Bhakarwadi, a cherished Diwali snack that symbolizes the coming together of family and friends with its irresistible blend of spices and aromas, making it a delightful treat for the festive season.
Batata Vada, a beloved Maharashtrian snack, is a flavorful delight where spiced mashed potatoes are encased in a golden gram flour batter, fried to crispy perfection, and served with tangy chutneys, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.
Sabudana Vada, a famous snack from Maharashtra, is a crispy and flavorful delight made from soaked tapioca pearls or sago, mashed potatoes, peanuts, and spices. Golden brown and crunchy on the outside, with a soft and fluffy texture inside, each bite of this vada is a burst of savory goodness.
Sabudana Khichdi, a staple dish from Maharashtra, is a delightful blend of soaked sago or tapioca pearls sautéed with potatoes, peanuts, aromatics and spices. It is often enjoyed during fasting periods or as a comforting breakfast, and is a celebration of simplicity and deliciousness.
Alu Vadi, a popular Maharashtrian tea-time snack, is made from colocasia leaves (arbi ke patte) layered with a spiced gram flour (besan) paste, rolled, steamed, and then topped with a tempering. This vegan version relies on bold spices like tamarind, jaggery, and sesame seeds for its signature sweet-tangy flavor.
Main Course
Masale Bhat, a specialty from Maharashtra, is a flavorful rice dish infused with a medley of vegetables and spices, creating a symphony of fragrances that waft through the air. Garnished with crunchy cashews, coconut and fresh coriander, every spoonful is a delightful explosion of textures and tastes.
Puri Bhaji, a beloved Maharashtrian breakfast dish, pairs fluffy, golden puris with a flavorful potato curry, creating a hearty start to the day. This classic combination brings together the comforting flavors of Maharashtra in every delectable bite.
Varan Bhaat, a quintessential Maharashtrian dish, harmonizes the simplicity of lentil curry (varan) with steamed rice (bhaat), offering a wholesome and comforting meal. This timeless combination, often accompanied by a dollop of tangy pickle and a drizzle of lemon, captures the essence of Maharashtra’s culinary warmth and tradition.
Maharashtrian Katachi Amti is a delightful lentil curry made from the leftover stock of cooked chana dal. This tangy and spicy curry is infused with the warmth of aromatic spices, tomato and curry leaves, and typically served with steaming hot rice or soft, fluffy bhakris, making it a comforting and wholesome meal.
The beloved Maharashtrian Usal is a flavorful medley of sprouted legumes simmered in a fragrant, spicy curry that delights the senses with every bite. Each spoonful reveals a harmonious blend of tender sprouts, aromatic spices, and a rich, savory curry. Turns into a complete meal when served hot with a side of fluffy pav.
Beverages
Chaas, a staple in North Indian cuisine, is a refreshing and traditional beverage that offers both cooling relief and digestive benefits. Often enjoyed as a companion to spicy meals, it is more than just a drink; it’s a cherished part of Indian culinary culture.
Solkadhi, a refreshing vegan drink from Goan cuisine, is made with coconut milk and kokum, which gives it a tangy and creamy flavor. Often spiced with garlic, chilies, and coriander, it’s a soothing digestive served with rice or sipped as a cooling beverage after meals.
Piyush, a luscious Maharashtrian beverage, is made by blending shrikhand with milk and/or curd, flavored with saffron, cardamom, and nutmeg. This rich and creamy drink is sweet, aromatic, and often garnished with nuts, making it a festive treat or a cooling summer delight. It’s a dessert-like indulgence with a traditional charm.
Masala Milk, a cherished beverage in Maharashtrian cuisine, is a warm or chilled milk drink infused with aromatic spices like cardamom, nutmeg, saffron, etc., sweetened with sugar. Enriched with chopped nuts like almonds, pistachios, etc., it’s a festive delight served during celebrations.
If there’s one Indian beverage that captures the essence of summer, in all its glory, it is Aam Panna made by blending tangy raw mangoes with cooling mint and a hint of spices, resulting in a revitalizing and flavorful drink. This refreshing beverage quenches your thirst with every drop.
Gudi Padwa recipes from the archives was first published on March 2017.