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Last Updated:January 13, 2025, 09:34 IST

Makar Sankranti and Pongal mark the joyous harvest season with gratitude, traditions, and festive feasts

Makar Sankranti delights with kite flying and treats like tilgul laddoos and puran poli, while Pongal in Tamil Nadu shines with vibrant kolams, offerings to the Sun God, and the delicious Sakkarai Pongal.

As the winter sun begins its northward journey, India lights up with vibrant festivities to mark the harvest season. Makar Sankranti and Pongal mark the joyous harvest season with gratitude, traditions, and festive feasts. Makar Sankranti delights with kite flying and treats like tilgul laddoos and puran poli, while Pongal in Tamil Nadu shines with vibrant kolams, offerings to the Sun God, and the delicious Sakkarai Pongal. These festivals celebrate nature’s abundance and India’s rich culinary heritage. Let’s explore their unique rituals and flavors.

Khandani Rajdhani

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This January, celebrate the flavors of India at Khandani Rajdhani’s Utsav Food Festival.This festive feast brings together regional specialties inspired by occasions like Lohri, Makar Sankranti, and Pongal.Indulge in the Utsav Thali, featuring iconic dishes like Undhiyu, Paneer Kadai, Jaisalmeri Chana Masala, and much more. For dessert, enjoy Til Laddoo, Motichur Laddoo, and Gajar Ka Halwa, perfect for the winter season. The Utsav Food Festival at Khandani Rajdhani is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition, togetherness, and the joy of sharing festive dishes with loved ones.

Where- Khandani Rajdhani, All outlets

When- 11th Jan-15 Jan 2025

Ummrao, Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport

The new menu at Ummrao, Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, honors the rich heritage of Awadhi cuisine. Featuring Set Dinner Menus with Jain and Gluten-Free options, the vegetarian selection includes dishes like Subz Shah Jahani, Dal Sultani, and Subz Goli Biryani. The non-vegetarian menu offers flavorful appetizers such as Mahi Gulnaar Tikka and Murgh Barra Kebab, followed by Murgh Bemisaal and Lucknowi Murgh Biryani. Both menus end on a royal note with Mishtaan-e-Ummrao, a selection of decadent desserts like Shahi Tukda and Kesar Phirni. The diverse offerings ensure an unforgettable dining experience for all guests.

Where: CTS 215, Andheri – Kurla Road, Opposite Carnival Cinemas, Andheri East, Mumbai

When- available till 31st Jan 2025

Nksha Churchgate

Nksha, the exquisite North Indian restaurant near Marine Drive, is offering a must-try Winter Special Menu that highlights the season’s comforting flavors. Curated by Chef Vikram Arora, the menu features seasonal dishes like Paya, Surti Ponkh Kachori Chaat, Awadhi Arbi Ke Kebab, and Tandoori Himalayan Trout. For the main course, indulge in Old Monk Mutton Curry, Sarso Da Saag with Makki Di Roti, and Bhuna Desi Chicken, paired with Green Garlic Paratha and Butter Naan. End your meal with delightful Gajar Ka Halwa Naan Khatai Tart and Special Petit Fours, while enjoying winter cocktails like Star Anise Martini and Nksha Gin Fizz.

Where: 1A/1B Rehmat Manzil Veer Nariman Road, Churchgate, Mumbai

When: Available till 31st January 2025

The South of Vindhyas,the Orchid hotel

Celebrate Pongal at South of Vindhyas, The Orchid Hotel, Mumbai, from January 14-16, 2025, with a specially curated vegetarian menu honoring Tamil Nadu’s rich culinary heritage. Begin with Neer Mor and Panakkam, followed by Tomato Rasam and chef-curated starters. The main course features festive dishes like Vazhakkai Kootu, Karamani Poriyal, and Ezhudhan Curry, paired with Appam, Kal Dosa, Poori, and flavorful rice dishes like Paruppu Sadam and Paruppu Kadiyal with ghee. End with traditional sweet Pongal preparations. The ambiance, with its intricate South Indian decor and traditionally dressed staff, creates a true celebration of Pongal’s spirit, blending gratitude, culture, and togetherness.

Where: T1, 70-C, Nehru Rd, near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Mumbai, Navpada, Vile Parle East, Vile Parle, Mumbai

When: 14th to 16th January, 2025

Madras Cafe

Every year, Cafe Madras in Mumbai transforms into a haven of South Indian culture during Pongal. Known for its authentic cuisine, the cafe celebrates this harvest festival by serving an array of traditional delicacies like Sweet Pongal, Ven Pongal, and Avial, each prepared with love and the finest ingredients. The festive decor, featuring banana leaves, brass lamps, and floral arrangements, enhances the celebratory spirit. Live Pongal-making demonstrations by their chefs add an interactive element, allowing diners to connect with the festival’s rich traditions. A special menu, curated for the occasion, showcases dishes that highlight the flavors of Tamil Nadu, making Pongal at Cafe Madras a must-visit culinary experience.

Where: Valid through all outlets in Mumbai.

When: Valid till 31st January, 2025

SOURCE : NEWS 18

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