Meet The Rebel Homegrown Mithaiwalas Reinterpreting Traditional Modaks

For anyone that’s grown up in Maharashtra, Ganesh Chaturthi is the best time of the year. The city comes alive in a way you’ve never seen before — which sounds hyperbolic, but no club can come close to the Ganpati fervour. Beyond getting a couple days off from work, it’s the food that makes us love this festival. At the centre of it is the universally beloved modak: delicately crafted, sweet dumplings believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favourite treat. More than their flavour, modaks carry a deep cultural significance, rooted in centuries of tradition and history.

The origins of the modak are as rich and varied as the sweet itself. According to culinary historian Darra Goldstein, 'modaka' is an ancient sweet that dates back to around 200 BCE. Early mentions are found in Ayurveda, Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Saili Palande Datar, an art historian and archaeologist, sheds light on the ancient connection between Ganesha and modaks, noting, “If you look at old sculptures, Ganesha is depicted with…what appears to be modaks…as old as the 6th century CE. The artwork at Ellora (600–1000 CE) shows Ganesha eating something that looks like a modak.”

Over time, especially under the influence of figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, the public worship of Ganesha and the modak’s role within it became more pronounced. The modak itself is a testament to the region’s agricultural diversity, with its preparation varying between the ghats and the coastal regions. “Whatever is available is used,” Datar notes, emphasising the adaptability of this sweet to the local environment. 

The influence of the modak extends beyond Maharashtra’s borders. In Tamil Nadu, where Ganesha is revered as Vinayagar or Pillaiyar, the modak is a staple during local festivals, with variations that reflect the region’s unique culinary traditions. Now, it’s transcending time and space to become a staple across communities.

Contemporary brands are reinventing the traditional modak while staying true to its essence. These modern mithaiwalas honour the modak’s rich heritage as they introduce new flavours, techniques, and presentations that appeal to modern palates. The timeless modak continues to evolve, all while remaining a cherished symbol of joy, devotion, and cultural continuity.

Bombay Sweet Shop has carved a niche for itself by reimagining traditional Indian sweets with a contemporary twist, and their modaks are no exception. Their approach combines nostalgia with innovation, using high-quality ingredients and modern techniques to create a modak that’s both familiar and fresh.

This season they're offering Chocolate Hazelnut Modaks, Puran Poli Modaks, and Carrot Halwa Modaks. Each one is a tribute to Mumbai’s rich culinary heritage, presented in a way that resonates with our generation. The brand’s commitment to maintaining the authentic flavours while adding a touch of modern flair has made it a favourite among sweet lovers looking for something both classic and cutting-edge.

You can check them out here.

Gur Chini is all about celebrating the richness of Indian heritage through sweets that are steeped in tradition but executed with contemporary finesse. Their modaks are handcrafted with an emphasis on purity and quality, using time-honoured recipes that highlight the natural sweetness of ingredients like jaggery and coconut.

All four options: Dry Fruit Orange Modak, Kesar Modak, White Mawa Modak, and Purple Mawa Modak bring a touch of rustic charm to the modern palate. The brand’s focus on preserving the essence of traditional sweets while ensuring they are accessible to a wider audience has made Gur Chini a household name.

You can check them out here.

Khoya is a brand that prides itself on luxurious, artisanal sweets, and their modaks are no exception. Each modak is meticulously crafted, often with a touch of opulence, such as the addition of gold leaf or exotic ingredients like saffron and pistachios.

Their collection reflects a perfect balance between tradition and indulgence. Khoya's commitment to quality and artistry is evident in every detail, making their modaks not just a sweet treat, but a gourmet experience. For those looking to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi with a touch of elegance, Khoya offers a premium take on this beloved dessert. This year they're offering Rose Modaks, Filled Kesar Modaks, Til Modaks, and Chocolate Chip Modaks.

You can check them out here.

Arq is redefining the boundaries of traditional Indian sweets by merging age-old flavours with modern, sustainable practices. Known for their meticulous attention to detail and use of premium, ethically sourced ingredients, Arq’s modaks are a testament to their philosophy of blending tradition with innovation.

Their creations: Coconutty, Almond Rose, Saffron, Caramel Pedha, and Khoya Pista, feature a sophisticated balance of flavours, enhanced by delicate notes and richness. Arq’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their packaging and ingredient sourcing, making their modaks a perfect choice for those who appreciate both environmental consciousness and culinary excellence. Each modak from Arq is not just a dessert but an artisanal experience.

You can check them out here.

Zealo approaches the modak with a spirit of experimentation, blending traditional flavours with unexpected ingredients to create something entirely new yet deeply rooted in Indian culture.

They have five options to choose from: Pistachio Pecan Modaks, Kesar Kaju Modaks, Chocolate Pecan Modaks, Kaju Coconut Modaks, and Gulaab & Dry Fruit Modaks. Unlike conventional offerings, Zealo’s creations are all about trying new combinations, making their modaks a favourite among those who enjoy a modern twist on classic sweets. The brand’s flair for combining the old and the new, without losing sight of the modak’s essence, makes them a standout choice across the world of Indian confections.

You can check them out here.

If you enjoyed reading this, here’s more from Homegrown:

From Momos To Modaks: A Homegrown Guide To India's Dumplings

The Lesser-Known Political Past Of 'Ganpati Visarjan'

Pistabarfi Is Bringing Back The Old-World Charm Of Indian Mithais