New Delhi: India is a country of rich and diverse culture, people follow various gods and goddesses in the Hindu religion and each god has its significance. laddu are often heard as one of god’s favourites and are not only a treat but hold a special place in our tradition. They are offered as sacred offerings to various deities during religious ceremonies and festivals.
Each god in Hindu mythology has their favourite type of laddu, which is believed to please them and bring blessings to devotees. Here is a guide for you to know which laddoo is offered to different gods and the significance behind it in the Hindu religion.
Lord Ganesha is often associated with motichoor laddu, a sweet made from tiny, fried gram flour balls. This laddu is not only a favourite offering during Ganesh Chaturthi but also symbolises prosperity, happiness, and the removal of obstacles. The round shape of the motichoor laddu represents completeness and wholeness, much like Ganesha’s role in bringing harmony and balance to life.
Boondi laddu made from tiny drops of fried gram flour soaked in sugar syrup and formed in a ball, is a traditional offering to Lord Hanuman, the god of strength and devotion. Hanuman’s devotees offer this sweet, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, to honour his courage and unwavering devotion to Lord Rama. Offering boondi laddu is believed to bring strength, protection, and courage to face life’s challenges.
Rava laddu is a simple yet auspicious sweet often offered to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. These laddu are made from roasted semolina, sugar, ghee, and cardamom. During Diwali, the festival of lights, devotees prepare rava laddu to seek the blessings of Lakshmi for financial stability, abundance, and happiness in the household.
Til laddu made with sesame seeds and jaggery is commonly offered to Lord Vishnu, particularly during Makar Sankranti. Til laddu are believed to purify the soul and body, with the combination of sesame seeds and jaggery symbolising nourishment and strength.
Kesar laddu, made with gram flour, ghee, sugar, and saffron, is offered to Lord Murugan, the god of war and victory. The saffron-infused laddu signifies purity, power, and spiritual strength.
Known for his playful and loving nature, Lord Krishna has a fondness for sweets, particularly besan laddu. Made from roasted gram flour, ghee, and sugar, besan laddus are offered to Krishna, especially during Janmashtami, which celebrates his birth.
laddu are not only favourites of different gods but also hold deep religious and spiritual significance. Each god is associated with a specific type of laddu, and offering these sweets during prayers or festivals is a way to express devotion, seek blessings, and connect with the divine.
