Oct 08, 2024
Celebrating contrast: The culinary differences between Durga puja and Navratri
Siddhartha JanaThe festivals of Durga Puja and Navratri are celebrated differently, with Durga Puja commencing on October 2, marking Ma Durga’s return to her parental home, while Navratri celebrates the triumph of good over evil and goddess Durga’s nine avatars.
Source: Canva
Durga Puja is characterized by gastronomical excess, featuring a variety of delicacies like fish, meat, prawns, and sweets, leading to increased BMI among Bengalis during the festivities.
Source: Canva
In contrast, Navratri is a time of abstinence and fasting in North India, where meat, regular grains, and sometimes even water are avoided.
Source: Canva
During Durga Puja, Ashtami is a significant day when people typically consume vegetarian meals, such as khichuri with fried vegetables, despite the general indulgence throughout the festival.
Source: Canva
After Ashtami, feasting resumes on Navami, traditionally marked by the preparation of mutton following a ceremonial sacrifice, which has shifted from goat to watermelon or sugarcane.
Source: Canva
The dish "Niramish Mutton" or "Vegetarian Mutton" bhog is served on Navami, despite the term being an oxymoron, as it contains no actual vegetarian ingredients.
Source: Canva
This dish can be considered "partly vegetarian" since it is made without onions or garlic, reminiscent of the cuisine of Kashmiri Pandits.
Source: Canva
The traditional moist lamb dish, rich in gravy, is best enjoyed with fluffy luchis or gobindobhog rice.
Source: Canva
Boost energy and immunity with a healthy navratri diet plan