The Role of Kesar in Indian Festivals and Rituals: More Than Just a Scented Luxury

Let me tell you a little story that’s stayed with me since childhood.

It was Diwali night, and like every year, our home was buzzing with excitement. Diyas lit every corner, the air was thick with the smell of ghee and incense, and my dadi (grandmother) was in the kitchen preparing her legendary kesar-pista halwa. I still remember how she’d lovingly steep a few strands of kesar (saffron) in warm milk and whisper, “Yeh sirf rang aur khushboo nahi deta, beta. Ismein ashirwad chhupa hota hai.” (This isn't just for color and aroma, my child. It carries blessings.)

Saffron

Back then, I didn’t fully grasp what she meant. But now, years later, having explored the many layers of Indian food and traditions, I finally get it—kesar isn’t just an ingredient. It’s an emotion, a ritual, and a cultural symbol woven into the soul of Indian festivals.

Why Kesar Holds a Sacred Spot in Indian Traditions?

Saffron, or kesar, is often called the “Red Gold” of India—and for good reason. Not only is it the world’s most expensive spice by weight, but its significance in Indian rituals goes far beyond the kitchen.

From weddings to Navratri pujas, baby showers to temple offerings, kesar finds its place in both sweet and sacred moments.

1. Auspicious Color, Auspicious Vibes

In Hinduism, the color saffron symbolizes purity, spirituality, and sacrifice. That's why monks wear saffron robes and temples use saffron tilaks on deities. Mixing kesar in milk or applying it on the forehead is believed to invoke divine energy and good fortune.

Here’s a little tip I picked up from a priest during a Ganesh puja: ➡️ “If you’re offering kesar to Ganpati, mix it with a bit of rose water instead of regular water. It enhances the fragrance and keeps the tilak vibrant for hours.”

2. Kesar in Prasad: Taste Meets Blessing

During Janmashtami, Diwali, and Holi, kesar is often the secret star in kheer, shrikhand, sheera, and peda. Just a few threads elevate the dish from delicious to divine.

At our house, Makar Sankranti isn’t complete without kesar-til chikki. My mother swears by this trick:

Soak a few strands of Chukde Kesar in warm milk and add it to the jaggery syrup. It gives a subtle floral note that balances the nuttiness of sesame beautifully.

3. Rituals That Start With Kesar

In many parts of India, saffron is used in shagun thalis—a ceremonial tray offered during weddings and housewarming events. A tiny silver bowl with kesar-milk is placed alongside rice, haldi, and kumkum.

I remember during my cousin’s wedding, my aunt painted tiny kesar tilaks on every guest’s forehead. It wasn't just decorative—it was her way of sharing blessings and warmth.

From Tradition to Taste: Cooking With Kesar During Festivals

Cooking with kesar isn't just about tossing a few strands into milk. It’s about extracting its essence—that deep golden hue, that warm earthy-floral scent, that rich undertone that whispers luxury in every bite.

Here’s how I make the most of this magical spice:

Expert Tip 1: Always Bloom It First

Don’t ever add dry kesar directly into a dish. Steep it in warm milk or water for at least 10–15 minutes. This allows the crocin and safranal compounds (which give kesar its color and aroma) to fully release.

Expert Tip 2: A Little Goes a Long Way

If your saffron is real and high quality (like Chukde Kesar, which is handpicked), you only need 4–5 strands for a dish serving 4–5 people.

Trust me, don’t waste it. That tiny pinch is pure gold—literally.

Expert Tip 3: Pair It Right

Kesar pairs beautifully with dairy—milk, cream, yogurt, khoya. That’s why you find it in sweets like rabri, rasmalai, kulfi, and even festive drinks like thandai and badam milk.

What Makes Chukde Kesar Different?

If you’ve ever been disappointed by kesar that looked pretty but smelled like nothing—you're not alone. Many saffron brands are bulk-dried and lose their punch.

Chukde Kesar is different. Here’s why I recommend it (and use it religiously):

• 100% Natural saffron, harvested from Kashmir’s pristine valleys.

• Strong aroma and distinct floral notes.

• Comes in vacuum-sealed packaging to retain freshness.

• Just a few strands are enough to transform a dish.

And guess what? It’s not just a festive splurge. I even add it to my Sunday kesar chai and occasionally in my turmeric latte when I need a little pick-me-up.

Lesser-Known Rituals Where Kesar Shines

Let’s talk about a few unique uses you won’t often find in typical blogs:

Kesar as Natural Dye

In olden days, saffron was used to dye festive garments—especially dupattas for newborn baby rituals or bridal accessories.

Saffron in Ayurveda

Kesar is believed to enhance mood, boost memory, and improve complexion. That’s why you’ll often find it in pre-wedding beauty masks and postpartum tonics.

My nani had a ritual: she’d make a kesar-almond paste every winter and apply it to our cheeks before bedtime. “Gora rang nahi, sehatmand rang chahiye,” she’d say. (Not fair skin, but healthy skin.)

FAQs About Kesar in Indian Rituals

Q1: How do I know if my kesar is real?

Real saffron has a strong floral smell, not sweet or chemical-like. Rub a strand between fingers—if it leaves color but doesn’t dissolve quickly, it's pure. Chukde Kesar is lab-tested and quality assured.

Q2: Can kesar be used daily?

Absolutely, in moderation. Use it in warm milk, chai, or desserts. It’s known to reduce anxiety and support digestion.

Q3: How do I store kesar?

Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Avoid keeping it near the stove or fridge where moisture can seep in.

Final Thoughts

So the next time you add a strand of saffron to your kheer or dab a kesar tilak on your deity, take a second to appreciate what you’re really adding: a pinch of tradition, a touch of reverence, and a whole lot of heart.

And if you're looking for the perfect kesar to accompany your festive dishes or rituals, I’d wholeheartedly recommend trying Chukde Kesar. It’s the same one I trust in my kitchen—and in my memories.