Diwali Snacks Maharashtrian - Chivda, Chakli & More (2025) Skip to content

Diwali Snacks Maharashtrian | A Complete Guide to Chakli, Chivda, Shankarpali, and Karanji at Home

Diwali Snacks Maharashtrian

Diwali, the festival of lights, is as much about flavors as it is about festivities—and for many, Diwali Snacks Maharashtrian define the season. In every Maharashtrian household, the air fills with the comforting aroma of freshly fried snacks and sweets, lovingly prepared to welcome family, friends, and prosperity into the home. Each home kitchen turns into a lively workshop where generations come together to roll, fry, and shape traditional delights. These dishes are not merely food—they are cherished memories, cultural heritage, and pure happiness wrapped in every crunchy or melt-in-your-mouth bite. The warmth of this celebration truly begins in the kitchen

What makes Maharashtrian Diwali faraal (festive snack platter) so special is the beautiful blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that create a perfect festive harmony. Prepared days before Diwali, this elaborate spread brings people closer as they share homemade treats with neighbors and guests. From the irresistibly crisp spiral chakli and flaky karanji to the soft, ghee-laden besan ladoos that simply dissolve on your tongue, every snack tells a story of tradition, love, and community—a delicious celebration of togetherness passed down through generations.

Top 10 Diwali Snacks Maharashtrian

No Diwali celebration in Maharashtra is complete without its signature snacks that blend tradition with irresistible taste. From crunchy savories to delightful sweets, each treat adds its own sparkle to the festive platter. Here are the top 10 Maharashtrian Diwali snacks that truly capture the essence of this season of joy and indulgence.

Chakli

Spiral-shaped, golden, and irresistibly crunchy, chaklis are crafted from rice flour, gram flour, and a fragrant mix of spices. Their satisfying bite and earthy flavor make them the ultimate tea-time partner during festive Diwali visits. Perfect for sharing across generations, they bring warmth to every gathering. Pro tip: Always store them in airtight containers to lock in that fresh, crispy texture for days.

Shankarpali

Sweet, diamond-shaped fried biscuits prepared with flour, sugar, and ghee are a nostalgic treat loved across Maharashtrian homes. Soft inside yet crisp outside, they are simple to make and an instant hit with kids. While the classic sweet version reigns supreme, families often enjoy a savory variation spiced with salt and caraway seeds, offering a delightful contrast in the snack platter.

Karanji (Gujiya)

A festive favorite, karanji boasts a delicate, crisp outer shell filled generously with coconut, jaggery, and a medley of dry fruits. Some households add poppy seeds (khuskhus) for extra richness and texture, elevating its luxury appeal. Best served warm with a steaming cup of chai, this treat is a testament to Diwali’s blend of indulgence and tradition.

Chivda (Poha Mixture)

Light yet flavorful, chivda is made by roasting flattened rice with peanuts, curry leaves, green chilies, and a gentle sprinkle of sugar for balance. It’s airy, crunchy, and a perfect savory break between sweet delights. Home cooks experiment with cornflakes chivda or multigrain mixes, adding a twist to the classic recipe while keeping its festive charm intact.

Besan Ladoo

Melt-in-your-mouth besan ladoos are made by slow-roasting gram flour to enhance its nutty aroma, then blending it with rich ghee and sugar. Rolled into soft, golden spheres and lightly garnished with cardamom or dry fruits, they are an absolute Diwali must-have. Their smooth texture and sweet fragrance make them the star of any festive table.

Anarsa

Made from fermented rice flour and jaggery, Anarsa is rolled in sesame seeds before being fried to a rich golden hue. Its slightly chewy center, nutty sesame crunch, and subtle sweetness make it a treasured Diwali delicacy. Although tricky to master, the result is truly worth the effort, earning it a spot among the most auspicious snacks prepared only during this festive season.

Rava Ladoo / Coconut Ladoo

Quick to prepare yet rich in flavor, these ladoos are crafted with semolina or freshly grated coconut bound together with aromatic ghee. Their soft, mildly sweet taste makes them a reliable favorite for busy households during Diwali. Compact, light, and easy to pack, they also make perfect gifts for spreading joy and sweetness among friends and family.

Sev

These fine, crispy strands made from gram flour and mild spices deliver a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist. Perfect to snack on by themselves or as a crunchy topping for chivda, sev comes in multiple varieties—plain, spicy, or even garlic-infused—for an added burst of flavor. The golden texture and savory profile make it a balancing element in the snack spread.

Shev-chi Karanji

Bringing a savory twist to the beloved sweet version, Shev-chi Karanji is filled with spiced sev and aromatic masalas instead of coconut or jaggery. Its flaky shell paired with the tangy-spicy filling caters to those who lean toward salty treats. Often served alongside sweets, it creates a perfect contrast that makes the faraal platter more exciting.

Puran Poli (Special Mention)

Soft, fragrant flatbread stuffed with a luscious mix of chana dal and jaggery is a Maharashtrian classic many families consider essential for Diwali. Though not technically a snack, Puran Poli represents celebration in every bite. Served hot with a generous dollop of ghee melting on top, it is comfort food at its finest and a dish that symbolizes festive abundance.

✨ Together, these 10 delights, from crispy savories to melt-in-the-mouth sweets, form the heart of Maharashtrian faraal and make Diwali truly delicious.

Diwali Snacks Maharashtrian Price List

Diwali snacks in Maharashtra are not just about taste and tradition—they also come with prices that suit every budget. From affordable homemade treats sold at local sweet shops to premium, beautifully packaged festive hampers, there’s something for every celebration style. A well-prepared price list helps families plan their faraal shopping, ensuring they can enjoy authentic flavors without overspending during the festive season.

Snack Approx Price (per kg) Notes
Chakli ₹400–₹500 Varies by spice blend
Shankarpali ₹350–₹450 Sweet or salty versions
Karanji ₹500–₹600 With coconut & dry fruits
Chivda (Poha Mixture) ₹300–₹400 Low-oil roasted options available
Besan Ladoo ₹450–₹550 Pure ghee ladoos cost more
Anarsa ₹500–₹650 Premium festive delicacy
Rava Ladoo ₹400–₹500 Simple and budget-friendly
Coconut Ladoo ₹450–₹550 Fresh coconut-based
Sev ₹300–₹400 Plain or spicy options
Shev-chi Karanji ₹500–₹600 Savory, festive snack

💡 Tip: Prices often rise as Diwali approaches due to high demand, so it’s smart to place your orders early—especially when shopping online—to get better deals and guaranteed availability of your favorite treats.

Related – Diwali Sweets Maharashtrian

Diwali Snacks Maharashtrian Hebbars Kitchen

Hebbars Kitchen is a fantastic resource for anyone who loves experimenting with Maharashtrian Diwali snacks. Their easy-to-follow step-by-step tutorials and short videos simplify the process of making traditional festive treats at home. From iconic recipes like chakli and karanji to sweet delights like shankarpali and ladoos, Hebbars Kitchen offers clear guidance that helps both beginners and experienced cooks prepare authentic snacks with confidence and ease. This makes Hebbars Kitchen a trusted friend in your Diwali cooking journey.

Some popular Maharashtrian snack recipes to try on Hebbars Kitchen:

  • Chakli Recipe – get perfect golden spirals with a crisp, melt-in-the-mouth texture every time.
  • Shankarpali Recipe – crispy yet soft, with the ideal balance of sweetness that delights kids and adults alike.
  • Karanji Recipe – enjoy the flaky, buttery outer layer filled generously with rich coconut stuffing, a festive favorite.
  • Chivda Recipe – a healthier, lighter version made with minimal oil but packed with flavor and crunch.
  • Besan Ladoo Recipe – learn no-fail tips to make round, smooth, and aromatic ladoos that melt in your mouth.

Cooking these snacks at home adds a warm, personal touch to your Diwali celebrations. Plus, you get the joy of enjoying fresher, healthier, and more authentic treats compared to store-bought options, making festival moments even more special.

Diwali Snacks Maharashtrian Online Shopping

Running short on time or staying away from home? Don’t worry—authentic Maharashtrian faraal is now just a click away! With several trusted online stores offering freshly made traditional snacks, you can conveniently order your favorite treats from anywhere and have them delivered right to your doorstep. Whether it’s crunchy chaklis, sweet shankarpalis, or rich karanjis, online shopping makes it easy to enjoy genuine festival flavors without hassle. Just remember to order early, as demand spikes during Diwali!

Here’s where you can shop online:

  • Local Mithai Shops (Haldiram’s, Chitale Bandhu, Bikanervala) – They offer beautifully packed gift boxes filled with authentic flavors that bring the festive spirit right to your home.
  • E-commerce Platforms (Amazon, Flipkart, BigBasket) – Find ready-to-eat packs of popular snacks like chakli, shankarpali, and more, perfect for quick and easy Diwali celebrations.
  • Regional Brands (Chitale, Ghasitaram’s, Pune mithai shops) – Known for specializing in genuine Maharashtrian tastes, these brands deliver faral that feels homemade and traditional.
  • Homemade Snack Sellers (Instagram/WhatsApp sellers, Swiggy Minis) – Ideal for those craving that true “ghar ka taste,” these local sellers bring fresh, handcrafted snacks right to your doorstep.

🔑 Tips for buying online:

  • Check the freshness and shelf life carefully to ensure you get the best taste and quality.
  • Order at least a week in advance because prices soar and stocks run out fast during the Diwali rush.
  • Read customer reviews to confirm the authenticity of flavors and overall satisfaction before purchasing.

Thanks to international shipping offered by some stores, even NRIs can now enjoy the rich tradition of Maharashtrian faraal, no matter where they live.

Conclusion

Diwali faraal is much more than just food—it embodies tradition, togetherness, and the warm hospitality that Maharashtrian culture is known for. Whether lovingly homemade or thoughtfully ordered online for convenience, these snacks carry the deep essence of family bonding and joyous celebration. From the crispy chaklis to the sweet, flaky karanjis, every bite serves as a heartfelt reminder of why Diwali is truly called the festival of joy and lights. This season, light up your homes and your plates with these delicious Maharashtrian treats, and remember to share generously with neighbors and loved ones—because at its heart, Diwali is all about spreading happiness and unity.

FAQs

Q1. What are the most popular Maharashtrian Diwali snacks?

Ans:- Chakli, shankarpali, karanji, chivda, and ladoos are among the top favorites enjoyed during the festival.

Q2. Are Maharashtrian Diwali snacks sweet or savory?

Ans:- They include both sweet options like shankarpali and karanji, as well as savory treats such as chakli and chivda, offering a perfect balance.

Q3. How long do these snacks stay fresh?

Ans:- Most snacks stay fresh for 7 to 15 days when stored properly in airtight containers, maintaining their crispness and flavor.

Q4. Can I make these snacks at home easily?

Ans:- Yes! With basic ingredients and clear recipes available on sites like Hebbars Kitchen, you can try making them conveniently at home.

Q5. Where can I buy authentic Maharashtrian snacks online?

Ans:- You can find authentic snacks on platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, regional brands such as Chitale, or local mithai shops offering delivery.

Q6. What is faraal in Diwali?

Ans:- Faraal refers to the assorted platter of traditional snacks prepared in Maharashtrian households especially for Diwali celebrations.

Q7. Are these snacks gluten-free?

Ans:- Some items, like besan ladoo and certain types of chivda, are naturally gluten-free, but it’s best to check specific recipes or labels before buying.

 

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