Diwali in western part of India has its own distinct flavour. From colourful rangolis adorning doorsteps to the warm aroma of ghee and cardamom drifting through homes, the entire region comes alive in celebration. In Maharashtra and Gujarat, the festive platter is more than a spread of sweets. It is a reflection of heritage and community ties that connect people. Families exchange boxes of mithai not merely as gifts but as expressions of affection and goodwill.
Here are some of the most loved sweets from Maharashtra and Gujarat that you can gift this Diwali, each adding a touch of regional flavour to your festive gifting.
Modak – The Symbol of Auspicious Beginnings
Many Maharashtrian homes also have Modak on the table for Diwali, even though it is often linked to Ganesh Chaturthi. These steamed or fried dumplings filled with jaggery and coconut are believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favourite sweet. Traditional ukadiche modaks (steamed ones) are popular, but modern versions with chocolate or dry fruit fillings have become equally loved. A box of Modaks is more than just a gift; it stands for blessings and prosperity.
Karanji – The Maharashtrian Classic
One of the most soght after traditional Diwali sweets from Maharashtra is Karanji. It’s a crescent-shaped pastry with coconut, semolina, sugar, and nuts inside that is deep-fried until it is crisp. Women often make Karanjis in large numbers for the faral, which is a special festive spread and then send them to friends and family. You can easily find Karanji gift boxes from well-known local brands like Chitale Bandhu and Kayani online today.
Shankarpali – The Festive Snack Everyone Loves
No Diwali in Maharashtra is complete without Shankarpali. These diamond-shaped bite-sized snacks made from flour, ghee, and sugar are both simple and addictive. They are crunchy, slightly sweet, and perfect for gifting because they stay fresh for days. Many sweet shops prepare both sweet and savoury versions, often pairing them in mixed festive hampers. It’s one of those gifts that disappear quickly because everyone — from kids to grandparents — enjoys them equally.
Basundi – A Rich, Creamy Indulgence
Moving towards Gujarat, Basundi is one of the most beloved sweets. Made by slowly thickening milk and adding sugar, cardamom, and saffron, it’s similar to rabri but lighter in texture. People often eat basundi with puris during special occasions, but it can also be packed in pretty jars as a high-end gift. Many stores now sell flavoured versions, like pista, mango or kesar, that keep the traditional base while appealing to modern tastes.
Mohanthal – Gujarat’s Pride
During Diwali, Mohanthal is very important to Gujarati families. It’s a thick sweet made with gram flour, ghee and sugar, with cardamom flavouring and nuts on top. Roasting the flour just right gives it a strong, nutty smell. People say that Mohanthal came from temple kitchens, where it was made as a gift to Lord Krishna. Today, it is one of the most popular sweets in Gujarat. It is a classic that captures the spirit of festive indulgence.
The Gujarati version of Karanji is Ghughra.
The Gujarati Ghughra is a sweet fried dumpling filled with coconut, semolina, and nuts. It looks like Maharashtra’s Karanji sweet. The difference is in the flavouring. Gujarati Ghughra usually has a hint of nutmeg and edible camphor, which gives it a unique aroma. It is light, fun, and easy to carry, which makes it a good gift for Diwali.
Sutar Feni: The Sweet from Surat
Sutar Feni is a special sweet from Surat. It is made of thin strands of fried dough soaked in sugar syrup and topped with pistachios. You can tell they are special just by looking at them. The fine layers and fragrant ghee make them stand out in any gift box. They are delicate, but you can get them in well-packed versions from well-known sweet shops that make sure they stay fresh during shipping.
Ordering Maharashtrian and Gujarati Sweets on Zomato
If you want to send these sweets to friends or family across cities, Zomato makes it easier than ever. From classic Modaks at Chitale Bandhu to rich Mohanthal from Ghantewala Sweets or Basundi from Kansar in Ahmedabad, several top-rated sweet shops now offer Diwali hampers through the app. You can explore regional categories, check delivery timelines, and even add personal notes to your orders.
