Dussehra

Dussehra, The Hindu Festival

Dussehra or Dasara or Vijayadashami is one of the important festival for Hindus which is celebrated all over India. This festival is celebrated for lord Rama's victory over Ravana according to Hindu Mythology. In another way, the celebration is for the victory of good things over the evil things. This celebration varies from region to region in India. The tenth day of Navaratri is Dasara. Ramleela and Durga pooja are the main rituals observed on this auscipious day.

In Maharashtra, this festival is also considered auspicious for buying new things. Another important ritual is to exchange Aptyache Paan which symbolizes a gold leaf. School kids perform Saraswati Pooja by drawing saraswati symbol on the slate or notebook. Goddess Saraswati is the deity of education, music and arts. So, the adults and the kids pray and worship their books, gadgets, and instruments. The marigold flowers have special importance during this day. Garlands made with these orange and yellow flowers enhance the beauty of Dussehra.

Saraswati Pooja

Any festival in India is incomplete without sweets. Following are some of the recipes which you can prepare for this special occassion.

Shrikhand

Pizza Sauce

Pizza Sauce

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium tomatoes, pureed
  • 4-5 garlic cloves
  • 1 onion chopped finely
  • 1-1½ tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
  • 1-1½ teaspoon oregano
  • 2-1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon red chilli flakes
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon oil

Method:

  1. Heat oil and butter in a thick bottom pan.
  2. Add chopped onions and saute for 5-7 seconds on a low heat.
  3. Add chopped onions and mix everything well. Add oregano and tomato puree.
  4. Cook everything for 5 minutes with frequent stiring.
  5. Add basil leaves, chilli flakes,sugar, ketchup, and salt.
  6. Cook the sauce till it thickens. Turn off the heat.
  7. Let the sauce cool down completely.You can use afterwords or store it in a airtight container in the freezer. You can store upto one month.
  8. Try this recipe with homemade pizza