Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is one of the most beloved Hindu festivals celebrated in India. It honors Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, who is revered as the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of good fortune. This vibrant and joyous festival typically falls in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which usually spans August or September. Apart from the grand processions and elaborate rituals, one of the highlights of Ganesh Chaturthi is the array of delectable sweets prepared to offer to Lord Ganesha. In 2023, as we gear up to celebrate this auspicious occasion, let's explore eight regional sweets from across India that you must try during the festivities.

1. Modak (Maharashtra):
Modak holds a special place during Ganesh Chaturthi, as it is believed to be Lord Ganesha's favorite sweet. These steamed or fried dumplings are made with rice flour or wheat flour and filled with a mixture of grated coconut, jaggery, and cardamom. The sweet and fragrant modaks are then offered to the deity as a symbol of devotion.

2. Peda (North India):
Peda is a popular North Indian sweet made from condensed milk and flavored with cardamom or saffron. It's often garnished with pistachios, almonds, or silver vark (edible silver leaf). These bite-sized sweets are a delightful addition to your Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

3. Kozhukattai (Tamil Nadu):
In the southern state of Tamil Nadu, Kozhukattai is a must-have sweet for Ganesh Chaturthi. These steamed dumplings are made from rice flour and filled with a mixture of grated coconut and jaggery. They come in various shapes, from simple rounds to intricate designs, and are a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

4. Ukadiche Modak (Konkan Coast):
Ukadiche Modak, originating from the Konkan coast, is a variant of the traditional modak. These modaks are steamed and made from a soft rice flour dough filled with a sweet mixture of coconut, jaggery, and cardamom. Their unique preparation method gives them a distinct taste and texture.

5. Besan Ladoo (North India):
Besan ladoos are made from roasted gram flour (besan) mixed with ghee, sugar, and cardamom. They are shaped into small, round balls and make for a delightful treat during Ganesh Chaturthi. These ladoos are easy to prepare and can be stored for a longer time.

6. Mysore Pak (Karnataka):
Mysore Pak is a rich and decadent sweet that hails from the state of Karnataka. It's made from generous amounts of ghee, gram flour, and sugar, resulting in a melt-in-the-mouth texture. This sweet treat is sure to win hearts during the festive season.

7. Chana Dal Barfi (Punjab):
Chana Dal Barfi is a delightful Punjabi sweet made from split chickpeas (chana dal) cooked with ghee, sugar, and flavored with cardamom. It's cut into square or diamond-shaped pieces and is a delightful addition to your Ganesh Chaturthi sweet platter.

8. Malpua (Bengal):
Malpua is a sweet pancake popular in Bengal and is often made during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi. These fluffy pancakes are deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup, making them a sweet and indulgent choice for the celebrations.

As you prepare to welcome Lord Ganesha into your home this Ganesh Chaturthi, make sure to include these regional sweets in your offerings. These delectable treats not only please the divine but also tantalize your taste buds, adding a touch of cultural richness to your festive celebrations. May this Ganesh Chaturthi bring you joy, prosperity, and an abundance of delightful sweets to savor with your loved ones. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!