What makes Navratri unforgettable? The beats of the dhaak, the swirl of garba, the charm of Golu or the food that brings everyone together?

Ask a Bengali, and you might hear stories of bhoger khichuri at a pandal, followed by street-food adventures that stretch late into the night. Ask a Gujarati, and you’ll discover how farali delicacies fuel days of fasting and nights of energetic garba. In Tamil Nadu, a visit to a Golu display often comes with a little bowl of sundal and a warm welcome. Different places, different traditions, but one common thread. Across India, Navratri is as much a feast of experiences as it is a celebration of faith. Food finds its way into the rituals, the reunions, the neighbourhood gatherings and the little moments that make the season special. Sometimes it is an offering; sometimes, a gesture of hospitality; and sometimes an excuse to linger a little longer with family and friends. And every region has its own flavourful story to tell.

Karnataka: The festive spirit of a royal city

In Mysuru, Dasara transforms the city into a spectacle of illuminated landmarks, cultural performances and grand processions. But beyond the grandeur lies another, quieter celebration: the gathering of families over festive meals. Traditional Karnataka preparations, served during special occasions bring familiar regional flavours to the season. A comforting bowl of bisi bele bath or a serving of payasa can become part of the memories associated with the festivities.

Bengal: Where devotion comes with a side of add

In Bengal, Durga Puja is a celebration that spills out of homes and into the streets. A plate of bhog khichuri served with labra (mixed vegetables) and begun bhaja (brinjal fry), offers a moment of calm amid the festive bustle. Not just that. There are rolls and phuchka, eaten between pandal visits and conversations that stretch long into the night. Here, food is as much about being together as it is about what’s being served.

Gujarat: Fuel for a season of faith and festivity

As evening falls in Gujarat, the beats of garba draw people into circles of colour, movement and music. For many, the celebrations are accompanied by fasting, which brings its own distinctive food traditions. Sabudana khichdi, rajgira puri and other farali preparations transform the fasting table into a festive spread, made with ingredients permitted during the fast. These meals are more than a way to keep going through a long evening of dancing.

Tamil Nadu: When a little bowl of sundal means welcome

During Navratri, Tamil homes take on a special charm with Golu — carefully arranged displays of dolls and figurines that bring mythology, folklore and family traditions to life. The days are marked by visits from friends, neighbours and relatives, with each gathering offering an opportunity to exchange greetings and blessings. Often, guests are welcomed with sundal, a simple preparation of legumes tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves and coconut. Different varieties may be served on different days, making the humble snack part of the season’s rhythm.

Which festive food brings back your favourite Navratri memories? Tell us in the comments!