From Gul Pohe to Raswale Pohe: See How Goans Celebrate Diwali With Types of Poha!

Diwali in Goa is not just a festival of lights; it is a celebration of heritage, family, and culinary artistry. While the flicker of diyas and the sparkle of fireworks capture the eye, the aroma of freshly prepared festive foods fills the air, uniting homes in warmth and tradition. Among these culinary delights, one humble yet iconic ingredient takes center stage: poha. Known across India, Goan poha is far more than a breakfast staple—it is a symbol of community, creativity, and centuries-old culinary practices.

Cultural Significance of Poha in Goa

In Goa, Diwali is intertwined with local customs, many of which have roots in both Hindu and Portuguese influences. Poha, or flattened rice, has historically been a versatile ingredient in Goan kitchens, often used to craft dishes that balance taste with ritual significance. On Diwali, it becomes a canvas for culinary expression. Families spend days preparing various types of poha, from the delicately sweet Gul Poh, lightly infused with jaggery and coconut, to the rich and indulgent Raswale Pohe, creating a festive treat that is both mouthwatering and symbolic of prosperity and sweetness in the year ahead. These dishes are often passed down through generations, with mothers and grandmothers teaching younger family members the subtle techniques of soaking, frying, and sweetening, ensuring that the texture and flavour remain perfect.

Bringing Families and Communities Together

What makes Goan Diwali poha preparation truly special is its role in bringing families and communities together. Women gather in kitchens hours before the festival, exchanging recipes, sharing tips, and teaching younger members the art of perfect poha. In some neighbourhoods, households even host informal poha-making competitions, where creativity is celebrated as much as taste. Temples, community centres, and local markets feature stalls offering homemade poha variations during Diwali, reflecting Goa’s communal spirit. These shared culinary experiences strengthen bonds, preserve heritage, and ensure that even the simplest ingredients—flattened rice, spices, coconut, and jaggery—carry a story of cultural pride.

In an era of fast food and ready-made snacks, the ritual of preparing poha during Diwali stands as a reminder of the importance of mindful cooking and cultural preservation. Younger generations are slowly rediscovering these traditions, blending them with contemporary flavours without losing their essence. Some innovative Goan chefs even experiment with fusion poha dishes, keeping the spirit of the festival alive while appealing to modern palates.

Significance of Making Poha During Diwali in Goa

In Goa, the tradition of preparing poha during Diwali is deeply symbolic and rooted in the idea of abundance, warmth, and family bonding. Poha, or beaten rice, is considered an auspicious grain that signifies prosperity and good fortune. Its versatility allows Goans to create a range of festive dishes that cater to every palate. The most popular among them are Gul Pohe, made with jaggery and freshly grated coconut, representing sweetness and harmony in relationships, and Raswale Pohe, Pohe made in coconut milk and more. These dishes are not just about indulgence but are offerings of gratitude to the gods and ancestors. Preparing poha together also fosters togetherness—families gather in the kitchen, sharing laughter, stories, and recipes that have been passed down for generations. For Goans, making poha during Diwali is both a culinary ritual and a celebration of heritage, where food becomes a bridge between the past and the present.

A Celebration of Flavors and Togetherness

For Goans, Diwali is more than just a festival of lights—it is a festival of flavours, memories, and togetherness. Through the preparation of festive poha like Gul Pohe and Raswale Pohe, families celebrate their cultural identity, honour ancestral traditions, and share joy with their communities. Each dish tells a story, carrying the essence of Goan life: vibrant, diverse, and deeply rooted in heritage.

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