Pune on my plate: From ghavan and khika to upvas thalis, city’s iconic eateries prepare to serve Mahashivratri treats

Appa 

Established near Deccan Gymkhana in 1942, Appa currently has branches in Narayan Peth and Karve Nagar.

“For upvas we have Appa’s khika, a combination of khichdi and kakadi (cucumber) which is a cool and refreshing option rather than the not-so-easily-digestible sabudana khichdi. We also serve upvas thalipeeth, upvasachi misal containing sabudana khichdi, danyachi amti (groundnut-based curry), baked potato and other options. It is mainly the simplicity and nutritional meals and consistency in taste over the years that have made customers return to us,” says Sangram Deshmukh, owner of Appa.

Prabha Vishranti Gruha

Popular for its limited menu, distinctly made potato vada and Maharashtrian street food, Prabha Vishranti Gruha was started in 1940 by the Paranjape family.

“Sabudana vada is one of our bestsellers. Additionally, upvasachi misal, cucumber salad and potato bhaji can be other options for those fasting. For decades we have continued with homely preparation under our supervision to maintain a consistent taste. And to maintain personal interaction and relations with our loyal clientele we are not available for online food delivery apps, said Ketan Paranjape, the fourth-generation owner of the restaurant.

Hotel Abhijat New Sweet Home

Located on Kumthekar Road in Sadashiv Peth, this restaurant founded in 1947 is well-known for serving delicious South Indian menu and Maharashtrian delicacies.

“For upvas we have two thalis. Upvas thali contains thalipeeth, batata vada, danyacha ladu, buttermilk and chutney while the faral thaliincludes sabudana khichdi, sabudana vada, dana gulkand ladu and buttermilk. On the occasion of Chaturthi and Mahashivratri, we offer sweet kachori, milk-based malai barfi and piyush (curd-based nutmeg-flavoured drink),” says owner Meena Joshi.

Khandani Rajdhani 

Located in Phoenix Marketcity in Pune’s Viman Nagar, Khandani Rajdhani is a multi-chain vegetarian restaurant with outlets in Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru.

Popular for authentic Rajasthani and Gujarati food, this family restaurant also offers innovative options for fasting. Its upvasmenu includes kuttu ki puri, samo rice, rajgira puri, tomato dal, farali patties, and fruit shrikhand, among others.