Gudi Padwa, a colorful festival that marks the beginning of the Marathi New Year, is a time for new beginnings, happiness, and lots and lots of delicious food! This year, as you get ready to celebrate, why not explore some of the traditional dishes that are important to the Gudi Padwa festival? 

From sweets to savory dishes, listed below are five dishes you need to try for Gudi Padwa 2025:

One dish you cannot have Gudi Padwa without is Puran Poli. Puran Poli is a traditional sweet flatbread filled with a stuffing of jaggery and chana dal (yellow split gram). 

The filling is mildly sweet and spiced and is encased in soft and warm dough -- it is delicious. It is commonly served with ghee and this is customary for the Gudi Padwa holiday. The flavor and texture of Puran Poli make it one of the most beloved dishes during this period. 

Shira, also known as Sooji Halwa, is the perfect dessert that you didn’t know you needed. It has a base of semolina, sugar, and ghee. 

It's a sweet and creamy dish that is delicious in any way you make it. Throw in some saffron, cashews, and raisins to take it to the next level. It’s simple yet so delicious and, honestly, a little sweet dish perfect for breakfast or to eat after your meal. 

If you are a fan of a nice snack, Kothimbir Vadi is probably your vibe. This savory gram flour cake is made with fresh coriander (cilantro), coconut, and a mix of spices, steamed and fried until crispy to perfection. 

It's hard and crunchy on the outside, while soft on the inside, and oh-so-addictive! Kothimbir Vadi is one of those things you can eat as a snack or appetizer, and loved at every Gudi Padwa gathering!  

Chana Usal is a delicious dish made with chickpeas, and it's got a bit of everything- spicy, tangy, and comforting. This dish is made with black chickpeas (kala chana) and a coconut-based gravy, which is packed with protein and flavor. 

Pair it with rice or chapati, and it makes a wholesome meal to help balance all the sweets during the festivities. This dish is the ideal savory option to add to the sweetness!  

If you love desserts, then Basundi is a dream come true. This rich and creamy dessert is made by simmering full-fat milk until it is thicker, sweetened with sugar, flavored with cardamom and saffron, and then topped with crunchy nuts like almonds and pistachios. It is served chilled for extra richness. Don’t miss it!

These traditional dishes go beyond simply being food. They are all about the vibe and tradition of Gudi Padwa. Whether you are vibing with the sweet Puran Poli or enjoying the crunchy Kothimbir Vadi that made this Gudi Padwa extra special. Start prepping your kitchen, round up the family and enjoy the delicious Gudi Padwa flavor!