Growing Demand For Ukdiche Modaks Ahead Of Ganeshotsav In Pune 

As Ganesh Chaturthi draws near, the demand for traditional modaks is surging. With only two to three days left until the festival, preparations are in full swing. The process of making these sweet dumplings, an essential part of the celebrations, has begun in earnest.

According to Kishor Sarpotdar, President of the Maharashtra Catering Association, this year has seen a notable increase in the demand for hand-crafted steamed modaks. Sarpotdar explained that Poona Guest House decided to embrace this tradition and started producing Ukdiche modaks daily throughout the year. The establishment now sells these modaks at all its outlets and also delivers them through vendors. They proudly claim to be the first in India to offer handmade Ukdiche modaks every day, not just during Ganesh Chaturthi.

The rise in commercial vendors in Pune is significant. Starting from Friday midnight, professionals will begin making modaks, which will be delivered according to orders by Saturday morning. Sarpotdar’s team alone plans to produce 25,000 modaks on the festival’s first day.

This year, Pune is expected to see over two lakh hand-crafted modaks prepared for Ganesh Chaturthi. Each modak will be priced between 40 to 50 rupees. The business of making modaks has extended beyond Pune to rural areas, with many vendors using social media for promotion and offering home delivery services.

The preparation of modaks, which requires skill and care, is a critical part of the festival. Modaks are traditionally made the night before the festival and distributed by 11 a.m. on the first day. With around 1,500 vendors involved, the demand for these sweet treats remains high, ensuring the festival is celebrated with an abundance of modaks for worship and offerings.

A steamed modak seller from the city, Vaidehi Suryavanshi says, “The demand is increasing not just from Maharashtrian families, but also from non-Maharashtrian families. The first three day bookings are already over with at least 1000 modaks on each day. Traditional modaks are most revered by everyone.”