03/08/2025
I’m happy to be part of the 6th edition of My Community Festival 2025!
This year’s theme, “My First Journey,” began with My Breakfast Club—and as a proud Nagpurian, there was no question that Pohe Tarri had to be on the table.
A bowl of mildly spiced Kande Pohe, paired with a fiery black chickpea curry (Tarri), is a nostalgic staple in Nagpur. You’ll find it in homes and at street stalls as early as 6 AM. The steaming hot Tarri brings the punch, while crunchy sautéed peanuts, crispy sev, and a squeeze of lime elevate it with texture and tang—ASMR for the taste buds!
I also prepared our family-favourite Thalipeeth—a wholesome, hand-patted flatbread and a true culinary heirloom of Maharashtra. Made from a blend of rice, wheat, lentils, and millets, the exact proportions remain our family’s little secret. It’s best served with homemade butter, curd, or ghee, and of course, a side of seasonal pickle.
A special shoutout to Beatrice Tay, our wonderful facilitator, who made it so easy and enjoyable to connect with guests I had never met before. Our chats meandered from Sunday breakfasts to Nagpur’s iconic mills and oranges, to how Pohe varies across Indian states. My husband, Samar, even shared why Bombay became Mumbai—the story of Mumba Devi. We touched upon Gopalkala, the festive Poha dish made during Janmashtami, and the origins of community Ganesh celebrations in Maharashtra.
Meanwhile, my daughter brewed some comforting Masala Chai, which brought smiles all around.
A heartfelt thank you to the MCF team for your vision, effort, and dedication year after year.
You make sharing stories through food so meaningful. 🙏
