Jamai Sasthi recipes highlight the traditional method of food preparation in West Bengal on the occasion of the Jamai Sasthi also spelled as Jamai Shasthi. The day is basically dedicated to the Jamai or the son-in-law with every ritual being conducted for his well being along with the daughter of the household. The occasion is celebrated on the sixth day of Sukhla Pakshya on the month of Jasthya according to the Hindu calendar. Special Pujas and offerings are made on behalf of the son-in-law to Goddess Sasthi who is believed to protect children from harm.
A yellow thread tied on the wrist of both the daughter and the son-in-law signifies that the Puja has been completed and the mother-in-law who is expected to go without food for the welfare of her son-in-law gives a platter full of seasonal fruits and sweets to him before offering the other delicacies prepared according to the traditional Jamai Sasthi recipes. Gifts of clothes, ornaments and sweets are given to the daughter and son-in-law on the occasion every year.
Traditional Jamai Sasthi Recipes And Jamai Sasthi Food Menu
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Breakfast- Puris fried in ghee, potato or seasonal vegetable curries and sweets are offered to the son-in-law.
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Lunch- A sumptuous spread consisting of fried rice, a number of vegetarian dishes as well as lentils along with fish and mutton dishes are cooked according to the traditional Jamai Sasthi recipes. The head of the carp and shrimp cooked in coconut based sauce are the other delicacies usually associated with the occasion.
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Sweets- A number of Bengali sweets including the Mishti Doi or sweetened curd is a standard fixture on the day.
Customary Ways to Serve and Eat Jamai Sasthi Food
The food is served in a large brass plate with numerous bowls made of the same material surrounding it.
Jamai Sasthi Recipes: Trivia
Restaurants in West Bengal now offer traditional Jamai Sasthi Thalis on the occasion.