Food As A Cultural Memory: The Sweetness of Shakkar Para

Food – so much more than just fuel (or a gourmet expedition). It’s reliving experiences, a scrapbook of memories, a keeper of stories, a link to our roots – visually immortalised by Ego having his first bite of the ratatouille made by Remy in that delightfully entertaining movie Ratatouille.

Across India, certain snacks are as much a part of our cultural identity as the festivals they accompany. They don’t just satisfy hunger – they bring back the warmth of togetherness, the sound of shared laughter, and the colours of celebration. And wherever you may be, one bite and you are transported to a celebration, complete with music, laughter, and the hum of conversation. In that way, food is like a time machine – but instead of gears and levers, it runs on sugar (or spices) and steam.

Let’s talk about Shakkar Para – those golden, crunchy bites with a delicate sweetness. Many will instantly recall the excitement of Diwali mornings, with trays of festive snacks laid out for guests, and the comforting chaos of family gatherings. And, while recipes may vary from state to state, the sentiment remains the same – Shakkar Para marks the sweetness of togetherness.

North India (Diwali) – Prepared ahead of the festival, it’s part of the faral or mathri platter offered to guests, often alongside namkeens and laddoos.

Maharashtra (Diwali Faral) – Known locally as Shankarpali, it’s a staple in Diwali gift boxes, symbolising joy and abundance.

Gujarat (Makar Sankranti & Weddings) – Served during kite-flying festivities to keep the energies up.

Bihar & Uttar Pradesh (Holi) – A sweet counterpoint to the savoury snacks and thandai.

Punjab (Baisakhi) – A staple in in harvest celebrations

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Roasted Snacks

Roasted Shakkar Para – 200gms

₹200.00

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The beauty of Shakkar Para lies in its universality. Across India’s regions and languages, it signals festivity, hospitality, and community. In every form – be it diamond-shaped, square, lightly spiced, or simply sweet, it’s a thread in the larger cultural fabric of seasonal celebrations.

At The Roasted Alternative, we’ve reimagined Shakkar Para without losing its cultural essence. By roasting instead of deep-frying, we preserve the nostalgia of the flavour while creating a lighter version for today’s health-conscious celebrations. Just like the Shakkar Para your grandmother made – only now, you can enjoy it more often, guilt-free.

So, when you open a pack of Shakkar Para, you’re not just having a snack – you’re stepping into a memory. And just like the festivals we celebrate, those memories are worth keeping alive, year after year.

Because when it comes to flavour and wellness — you shouldn’t have to choose.