Chaitra Navratri 2026: Easy Kaala Chana and Sooji Halwa Prasad Recipe for Ashtami Bhog & more related news here

The nine-day celebrations of Chaitra Navratri 2026 will conclude with Ram Navami on March 27. In the final days of the celebrations, devotees open their nine-day fast by preparing the signature bhog. Depending on personal beliefs, bhog can be prepared on Asthami (eighth day) or Navami (ninth day) of Chaitra Navratri. Normally, the preparation of the bhog and the celebrations of the day include kanya puja.

Traditional Durga Ashtami bhog consists of sukha kala chana, sooji halwa and poori. This simple meal is not only delicious but also has great nutritional importance and value. The chana, poori and halwa prasad is one of the highlights of the nine-day festival, and devotees wait an entire year to savor the food.

The three course meal is not a random selection for Ashtami bhog. Experts believe that the combination of chana, poori and halwa provides a healthy and balanced meal for those who have fasted or followed a sattvic diet for the 9 days. Preparing dishes with pure ingredients also makes them good for digestion, rich in fiber and abundant in protein.

Ingredients: 1 cup kala chana (black gram), soaked overnight and drained, 1 medium tomato, finely chopped, 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder, 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder, salt to taste, 2 tablespoons oil, fresh coriander leaves for garnish, lemon slices for serving (optional).

How to do: Pressure cook the soaked kala chana with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt for 3-4 whistles or until cooked but still crispy. Drain and reserve.
Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. When it splutters, add the tomatoes, sauté and cook for 4-5 minutes. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder and garam masala powder. Mix well and add the cooked kala chana. Stir to combine. Add salt to taste and decorate with fresh coriander leaves. Serve Sukha Kala Chana hot with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Also read: Chaitra Navratri 2026: Tasty dishes without onion and garlic to savor

Ingredients: 1 cup sooji (semolina or rava), 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter), 2 cups water, 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder, 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional), chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios or cashews) for decoration.

How to do: Heat 1/4 cup ghee in a pan and toast the sooji over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant. In another saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer. Gradually add the roasted sooji to the syrup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the remaining ghee, cardamom powder and saffron (if using). Mix well. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the halwa thickens and the ghee separates. Garnish with chopped walnuts and serve hot.

Also read: Rama Navami 2026 on March 26 or 27? Know Shubh Muhurat, importance