Mumbai: Paryushan is a significant festival for the Jain community dedicated to self-reflection and fasting, aimed at purifying mind and body.
Observed during the Shukla Paksha of the Bhadrapad month according to the Hindu calendar, Paryushan is one of the most crucial Jain religious observances. Shvetambaras typically celebrate it for eight days, while Digambaras for ten days.
This time is set aside for study, meditation, and inner purification. During the monsoon season, Jain monks and nuns cease their travels and stay within a community, offering spiritual guidance to their followers. The term ‘Paryushan’ translates to ‘abiding.’
This year, Paryushan will be observed from 31 August 2024 to 7 September 2024, marking a week of peace, fasting, and prayer for Jains globally.
During Paryushan, many people engage in ritual fasting, though dietary practices can differ. Some individuals may abstain from food entirely, consuming only boiled water—a practice known as athai. Others avoid green leafy vegetables, certain fruits (particularly lemons), and refined flour.
Root and underground vegetables are also typically excluded. Commonly consumed foods during this period include milk and dairy products, rice, lentils, cereals, and pulses. Meals are usually eaten between sunrise and sunset.
During this Paryushan, infuse your celebrations with a touch of traditional sweetness. Gur ka Halwa, a classic Indian dessert, is not only delicious but also aligns beautifully with the festival’s spirit of simplicity and mindfulness. Made with wholesome ingredients like wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, this dish brings a comforting flavour that enhances any festive meal.
Gur ka Halwa recipe
Gur ka Halwa is a traditional Indian sweet dish made with wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee. This dish combines the wholesome goodness of jaggery with the richness of ghee, offering a delightful taste that resonates with traditional Indian sweetness. Perfect for celebrating Paryushan, this simple yet indulgent recipe captures the essence of the festival’s focus on reflection and simplicity.
Ingredients for Gur ka Halwa
1 cup wheat flour
¾ cup grated jaggery
½ cup ghee
2-3 tbsp ghee (for roasting)
Chopped almonds
How to make Gur ka Halwa
In a pan, boil 3 cups of water with the grated jaggery until it melts. Strain the mixture to remove any residue and set aside.
Heat ghee in a pan, then add the wheat flour. Roast on a low flame until the flour turns dark brown.
Mix in the chopped almonds and roast for an additional minute.
Pour in the prepared jaggery water and cook until the ghee starts to separate from the mixture.
Serve hot.
(Recipe by Monica Mehta- Your Veg Recipe)
Embrace the festival’s essence with this delightful Gur ka Halwa recipe, which offers both taste and tradition. Its rich, caramelised notes and comforting texture make it an ideal treat for Paryushan. Whether you’re observing a fast or simply enjoying a festive meal, this sweet delicacy will add a special touch to your celebrations. Enjoy preparing and savouring this authentic dessert with family and friends as you honour the spirit of Paryushan.
Make Gur ka Halwa this Paryushan 2024 with our easy recipe. Combining wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, this traditional sweet is perfect for Jain fasting and festival. Food & Drink Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
