Doodh Poha: A sweet milk based dessert recipe prepared with rice flakes flavored with saffron and cardamom made on the festival of Sharad Purnima.
Sharad Poornima is a celebration of the day when the moon gets closest to the Earth. This ancient Hindu festival, celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Ashwin, holds a special place in the hearts of millions. Sharad Purnima, brings with it not only radiant moonlight but also the belief in its healing properties, as well as the tradition of consuming dhoodh poha.
The Healing Glow of the Full Moon:
Sharad Purnima is synonymous with the fullest, brightest moon of the year. The soft and silvery moonlight is said to possess healing properties. It is said that moonlight on this night is enriched with effects which has the power to rejuvenate the body and soul. People often spend the night outdoors, basking in the moon’s glow and engaging in various activities, including singing, dancing, and storytelling. The moon’s energy is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety. Devotees observe a fast and break it only after sighting the moon, which is often accompanied by offering rice, kheer, and other delicacies.
Celebrations:
Celebrations differ from family to family, some worship Goddess Lakshmi ; farmers seek her blessings to prosper and achieve good harvests for the effort they have put in throughout the year. It is also believed that on the night of Sharad Purnima, Lord Krishna invited Gopis to dance in his Raas Leela. To every Gopi it felt as if Lord Krishna was dancing one on one with them, but to others he was seen dancing amongst them all. The scene was so pleasing that the moon stabilized its motion and was so lost in the devotional dance that it refused to dawn.
Dhoodh Poha Tradition:
A significant aspect of Sharad Purnima is the tradition of consuming dhoodh poha. Dhoodh poha, a simple and wholesome dish, consists of flattened rice (poha) soaked in milk (dhoodh). It is not just a tasty treat but also carries cultural significance. By combining ingredients such as milk and rice flakes it’s said to reduce the pitta that dominates in our body during this season. Sharad Purnima is a festival that celebrates the enchanting beauty of the full moon and its potential healing properties. It’s a time to connect with nature, seek blessings from the moon, and remember the value of pure, unadulterated moments in our lives. So, when the next Sharad Purnima arrives, don’t forget to step outside, bask in the moonlight, and savor a bowl of dhoodh poha to celebrate this unique and beautiful festival.
- 2 cups milk, full fat
- ½ cup poha/rice flakes
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 3-4 saffron strands
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
- 3 tablespoon pistachio + almond; chopped finely
- 1 tablespoon rose petals
- Put the milk in a thick bottom saucepan and place it on medium heat. Add the sugar and saffron and bring the milk to slow boil.
- Allow the milk to reduce by about one third, stirring continuously.
- Wash and drain the poha, set aside.
- Once the milk has thickened a bit, add the chopped almonds and pistachios.
- Simmer for 2 minutes and turn off the flame.
- Add the cardamom powder.
- Cool the milk mixture to room temperature and mix in the washed poha.
- Mix well and transfer to serving bowl.
- Garnish with rose petals and some slivered nuts.
- Cover with a fine cloth under the moon rays for a few of hours and enjoy
Enjoy,
