Bijaya Dashami, also known as Vijayadashami or Dussehra, is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals in India, marking the triumph of good over evil. It is a day of joy, festivity, and togetherness. One of the highlights of this auspicious occasion is the delectable array of sweets and desserts that are an integral part of the celebration. From traditional classics to regional specialties, Bijaya Dashami offers a sweet journey for the taste buds. Here’s a delightful exploration of some of the best sweets you must try during this festive season.
1. Sandesh:
Sandesh is a quintessential Bengali sweet that makes an appearance on every special occasion, including Bijaya Dashami. Made from fresh paneer (cottage cheese), Sandesh is sweetened with sugar and flavored with cardamom or saffron. The delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, milky taste of Sandesh is a beloved treat during the festivities.
2. Jalebi:
Jalebi is a popular sweet found across India, and it’s a must-try during Bijaya Dashami. This sweet spiral of deep-fried, syrup-soaked goodness is a favorite among both children and adults. Its crunchy exterior and syrupy interior create a delectable contrast of textures and flavors.
3. Rasgulla:
Another iconic Bengali sweet, Rasgulla, is a soft, spongy, and syrup-soaked delight. These round, white dumplings are made from chhena (a form of cottage cheese) and are traditionally offered during Bijaya Dashami. The sugary syrup and the spongy sweetness of Rasgulla make it a festive favorite.
4. Malpua:
Malpua is a dessert that transcends regional boundaries and is enjoyed in various parts of India during festivals. These sweet pancakes are typically made from a batter of flour, milk, and sugar, and are deep-fried until golden and crispy. They are often served with a drizzle of sweet syrup or a sprinkle of cardamom.
5. Gulab Jamun:
Gulab Jamun, soft, deep-fried balls made from khoya (reduced milk) and soaked in rose-flavored sugar syrup, is a beloved sweet across India. These golden orbs are not only delicious but also hold great significance during Bijaya Dashami celebrations, symbolizing the sweet victory of good over evil.
6. Sondesh:
Sondesh, a close relative of Sandesh, is a sweet treat often prepared during Bijaya Dashami. The main difference is that Sondesh is cooked until it attains a slightly firmer texture, making it a unique and delightful variation of the classic Sandesh.
7. Modak:
Modak, a sweet dumpling filled with jaggery, coconut, and nuts, is a traditional favorite during Bijaya Dashami, especially in the state of Maharashtra. It is believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet, and it is offered to seek his blessings.
8. Kalakand:
Kalakand, a rich and creamy milk-based sweet, is a popular choice during this festival. Its dense, fudgy texture and mild sweetness make it a wonderful addition to the festive dessert platter.
9. Srikhand:
Srikhand is a yogurt-based sweet dish that is popular in Gujarat and other parts of western India. It’s flavored with saffron and cardamom and often garnished with slivered almonds and pistachios. The creamy texture and delicate flavors of Srikhand make it a delightful dessert to savor on Bijaya Dashami.
10. Peda:
Peda, another beloved Indian sweet, is a bite-sized treat made from condensed milk and flavored with cardamom or saffron. It comes in various shapes and sizes and is a perfect accompaniment to your festive celebrations.
In conclusion, Bijaya Dashami is a time to come together with loved ones and celebrate the victory of good over evil. Sweets play an integral role in adding sweetness to these celebrations. Whether you prefer the syrupy indulgence of Jalebi, the creamy delight of Sandesh, or the nutty richness of Kalakand, the variety of sweets during Bijaya Dashami is sure to tantalize your taste buds and add an extra layer of joy to this auspicious occasion. So, make sure to savor these delectable delights and create lasting memories with your loved ones during this festive season.
