In Odisha, there comes a day when sugary spheres of bliss take centre stage. The day is known as ‘Rasagola Dibasa’ which is dedicated to celebrate the sweet treat ‘Rasagola’.
Rasagola has become an integral part of Odia culture, uniting people in a shared love for this iconic dessert. On this day, Odias come together to celebrate their culinary heritage and indulge in the irresistible flavours of this sugary delight.
The celebration of Rasagola Dibasa holds immense significance in Odisha’s culinary and cultural landscape. This day also commemorates the historical importance of Rasagola, which originated in Odisha and later gained nationwide recognition.
The origin of the Rasagola can be traced back to the ancient city of Puri in Odisha. For centuries, sweet makers in the region skilfully combined chhena (cottage cheese) and sugar syrup to create this melt-in-your-mouth delicacy. While the Rasagola eventually found its way to other parts of India and gained popularity, its roots firmly remain embedded in the cultural fabric of Odisha.
It is believed that Lord Jagannath himself offers Rasagola to his consort, Goddess Lakshmi, as a symbol of love and reconciliation. According to folklore, it is said that during the Rath Yatra festival, when Lord Jagannath visits his aunt’s house (Gundicha Temple), Goddess Lakshmi, feeling left out, becomes upset and locks the temple doors.
To pacify Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Jagannath returns from the Rath Yatra and offers her Rasagola as a token of his affection. This act is believed to symbolize their divine love and unity.
Rasagola Dibasa, therefore, holds significance as a way to honour Lord Jagannath’s offering of Rasagola to Goddess Lakshmi and as a reminder of the values of love, unity, and forgiveness. It is a day when devotees come together to celebrate the sweet delight and embrace the essence of harmonious relationships.
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It can be mentioned here that Chennai-based GI Registry had granted the GI tag to ‘Odisha Rasagola’ July 29, 2019. The mouth-watering sweet has been registered under the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
By embracing this celebration, Odias honour the expertise and craftsmanship of their sweet makers while cherishing the authentic flavours of their cultural heritage. This day also serves as an inspiration for young chefs to explore and innovate, ensuring that the art of making Rasagola continues to evolve while staying rooted in its traditional essence.
PNN