In South India, Diwali is celebrated with unique traditions and special treats that bring families together in a joyful setting. Known as Deepavali in the South, this festival symbolises the victory of good over evil, commemorating the defeat of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna.
The festivities often begin with a ritual oil bath before sunrise, followed by prayers and temple visits where families offer gratitude and seek blessings. It’s a time for decorating homes with intricate kolams (rangoli patterns) at the entrance, hanging festive torans of mango leaves, and lighting lamps to dispel darkness and usher in prosperity.
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A highlight of the South Indian Diwali is the array of delicious sweet and savoury snacks prepared at home for the occasion. Sweet treats are typically made from ingredients such as jaggery, coconut, and rice flour, adding a distinct richness and traditional flavour. Favourites include sweets filled with lentils, jaggery, and coconut, along with crisp, deep-fried delights made from chickpea flour and sesame.
Savoury snacks are equally cherished, bringing balance to the festive spread with spicy, crunchy bites often seasoned with curry leaves, asafetida, and green chilies. These snacks, prepared days before Diwali, are shared with friends, family, and neighbours, symbolising the spirit of generosity and joy.
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Mysore Pak
A quintessential South Indian Diwali sweet, Mysore Pak hails from Karnataka and is beloved for its melt-in-the-mouth texture. Made from a rich blend of gram flour, ghee, and sugar, it has a crumbly, fudgy consistency that’s deeply satisfying. Traditionally, the ghee is added gradually to achieve the perfect texture, making it both soft and slightly crispy. Mysore Pak’s delightful sweetness and rich flavour make it a must-have for the festive season.
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Murukku
Murukku is a classic South Indian snack that brings both flavour and crunch to Diwali festivities. Made from rice flour and urad dal flour, this salty snack is shaped into intricate spirals or twists, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Lightly spiced with cumin and sesame seeds, murukku is crispy and savoury, making it ideal for balancing out the sweetness of Diwali treats. It’s enjoyed with tea or coffee and adds a touch of nostalgia to the celebration.
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Adhirasam
Adhirasam is a traditional South Indian sweet that’s often made during Diwali in Tamil Nadu. Made with rice flour and jaggery, the dough is prepared, shaped into discs, and then deep-fried, resulting in a golden-brown, chewy delight with a caramelised outer layer. The jaggery adds a deep, earthy sweetness, while cardamom adds fragrance. Adhirasam requires careful preparation, but its unique taste and texture make it an essential part of festive celebrations.
Thattai
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Thattai is a crispy, savoury snack that’s similar to murukku but with a thinner, flatter shape. Made from rice flour and spiced with red chilli powder, cumin seeds, and asafoetida, Thattai has a delicate crunch. It’s a popular Diwali treat in Tamil Nadu and is easy to make in batches, perfect for serving during gatherings. Each bite offers a blend of spice and crispiness, making it an addictive festive snack.
Rava Ladoo
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Rava Ladoo, also called Suji Ladoo, is a simple yet delicious sweet made from semolina, sugar, and ghee. Roasted rava (semolina) is mixed with grated coconut, sugar, cardamom, and a touch of ghee to create a fragrant mixture. The mixture is then shaped into round ladoos, which have a crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth texture. Rava Ladoos are easy to make and can be prepared in large batches, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family during Diwali.
Ukkarai (Okkarai)
Ukkarai, also known as Okkarai, is a traditional Diwali sweet from Tamil Nadu. Made with chana dal, jaggery, grated coconut, and ghee, Ukkarai has a soft, crumbly texture. The dal is soaked, ground coarsely, and then cooked with jaggery and cardamom until it forms a fragrant, grainy mixture. This delicately sweet dish is often garnished with roasted cashews and a hint of nutmeg, making it a unique festive treat. Ukkarai's warm flavors and light texture make it a delightful addition to any Diwali spread.