The Story Behind Gujiya; A Popular Sweet Eaten On Holi

Holi is not only the popular Indian festival of colours but also of flavours. While people spend all day long having water fights, throwing gulaal and playful pranks, the evening is enjoyed with loved ones, relishing sweet treats. Among the many desserts feasted during Holi, Gujiya holds a special place.

Though you have been enjoying it for years, have you ever wondered where this delicious custom originated and why is it so closely linked to Holi? Let’s dive into the facts -

History & Origins

Some believe the exact origin of Gujiya is in ancient India, with references to a similar sweet dish called ‘karanika’ found in Sanskrit texts. It’s a dish that was filled with dry fruits and sweetened with honey, hinting at a possible ancestor to the modern-day Gujiya.

Some even believe Gujiya might be a sweet version of the popular Indian snack, samosa, which was possibly brought by trade routes from the Middle East.

Historian Sanjay Tripathi says that Gujiya could be a special version of an older sweet called ‘Anse’ or ‘Erse.’ It’s a deep-fried flatbread, once cooked by the Indian Jain community and made from wheat flour & jaggery.

Fast forward to the 1500s and Gujiya seems to have become a star in Braj, an area around Mathura and Vrindavan. Here, Gujiyas were flavoured with cardamom and even offered as a special treat (prasad) to Lord Krishna.

In Vrindavan's Radha Raman temple, there's a 500-year-old tradition of serving Gujiya and another sweet called Chandrakala as part of their temple meals.

Turkish Connection

The resemblance between Gujiya and Baklava (a layered Turkish dessert) has led some to believe that the recipe of Gujiya might have been inspired by it. Trade routes and cultural exchange could have played a role in introducing this concept to India, where it evolved into the Gujiya we enjoy on special occasions today.

Gujiya and Holi: The Celebratory Duo

Over time, Gujiya became linked to the festival of Holi. The vibrant colours associated with Holi can be seen in the Gujiya's fillings; made with a mixture of khoya, nuts and candied fruits. Modern variations also include other ingredients like coconut or chocolate which is quite popular.

So, the next time you bite into a delicious Gujiya on Holi, pause to take a moment and appreciate the rich cultural significance behind this delightful sweet.