New Delhi: The reason we all cherish the colour yellow on the occasion of Saraswati Puja is that it indicates the arrival of spring and everything happy and fresh. On this day, people also prepare food items which are yellow in colour to offer to goddess Saraswati and impress her with some of her favourite items.

Whether you are preparing bhog or simply preparing delicacies to impress the guests with a feast, here are yellow food items you must prepare on the occasion of Basant Panchami this year to make it more significant. Each recipe carries a sense of nostalgia, evoking memories of childhood mornings filled with devotion, sweet aromas and festive anticipation.

1. Kesari Halwa

• Made with semolina, ghee, sugar and saffron, it gets its golden hue from turmeric or kesar strands.


• Garnished with nuts, this melt-in-the-mouth sweet is offered to the goddess and enjoyed by children and adults alike.

It’s both comforting and festive, a must-have dish that never loses its charm.

2. Peele chawal

• Its vibrant yellow colour comes from turmeric or saffron.


• Often topped with raisins, almonds and pistachios, it tastes like spring on a plate.

This traditional recipe is especially popular in North India during Basant Panchami celebrations.

3. Kadhi Pakora

• Paired with steamed rice or khichdi, it becomes a wholesome, soul-soothing meal.


• The warmth of ginger, gram flour and spices makes it ideal for early spring weather.

4. Saffron Kheer

Kheer is a symbol of celebration, purity and comfort, made even more festive with saffron.

• Slow-cooked rice, milk, sugar and kesar come together to create a rich, velvety dessert.


• Its yellow tint and luxurious aroma make it a graceful addition to Basant Panchami bhog.

5. Mango Shrikhand

Though traditionally a summer treat, many families prepare this during Basant Panchami for its sunny colour.

• Hung curd blended with mango pulp, cardamom and sugar makes for a creamy, refreshing dessert.


• Its bright yellow appearance adds instant cheer to the table.

Basant Panchami is a great celebration of new beginnings, fresh arrival and the beauty of simple traditions which brings each other together. Here are simple yet delicious recipes that celebrate the joy of this festival.