Culinary Culture of Maharashtra

The people of Maharashtra believe that food or “anna” is equal to god and divinity. Brahma, the maker of this universe, is associated with food or “anna”. While having food, the people of Maharashtra offer their meal first to the deity, as a process of thanksgiving. The people of Maharashtra adheres to such norms specially during festivals and celebrations. They present offerings to the God first and then they participate in the festivity. Mithais or sweets are offered to the God, and it is usually ukadiche modak and sheera for satyanarayan puja. Culinary Culture of Maharashtra is nicely blended with the religious sentiments of the people of Maharashtra.

Culinary Culture of Maharashtra has two prominent styles- Varadi and Konkan. Since many areas in Maharashtra lies on the Arabian Sea coast, and is known as Konkan, they have their own style of Konkan delicacies. Cuisines of Konkan combines Gaud Saraswat Brahmin, Malvani and Goan delicacies. Varadi cuisine are those that belong to the interior region of Maharashtra, specially the Vidarbha region. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes are equally savoring. Meat and fish dishes are delicious and extremely tasty. The use of aromatic spices lends a special dimension to these tasty dishes. This trait is particularly evident in the Kolhapuri dishes. Vada pav and Pav bhaji are the most popular fast foods in Maharashtra and a unique part of Culinary Culture of Maharashtra.