Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Tilgul

Tilgul is a traditional sweet originating from , primarily made by combining roasted sesame seeds (til) with melted (gul), often shaped into balls (ladoo), brittle slabs (vadi or papdi), or bars, and sometimes coated with additional sesame seeds for texture. This confection holds deep cultural significance as a festival staple during , a Hindu harvest celebration observed on January 14 (or occasionally the 13th or 15th), marking the sun's transit into the zodiac sign of and the onset of longer days in the . In , tilgul is exchanged among family and friends with the traditional phrase "Tilgul ghya, god god bola" ("Take this tilgul and speak sweet words"), symbolizing warmth, forgiveness, and the encouragement of kind communication during the winter season. The preparation typically involves roasting sesame seeds to enhance their nutty flavor, boiling jaggery with ghee to form a sticky syrup, and mixing in the seeds along with optional additions like crushed , chana dal, or cardamom powder for added taste and nutrition. Nutritionally, tilgul provides sustained energy from the calcium-rich seeds and the iron-boosting properties of , making it a warming, immunity-enhancing treat suited to the cold weather of the festival. Beyond its festive role, tilgul ties into broader Hindu traditions, including women's gatherings like haldi-kumkum ceremonies where it is shared to foster bonds, and it draws from symbolic myths associating with and divine sweat in ancient lore. Variations exist across regions, but the version remains the most iconic, emphasizing simplicity and seasonal ingredients harvested just before the festival.

Overview

Description

Tilgul is a traditional confection primarily associated with the state of , where it is crafted such as balls (ladoo), brittle slabs (vadi or papdi), or bars by combining sesame seeds and , typically coated externally with additional sesame seeds. This sweet presents in small, round, golden-brown clusters or disks, characterized by a crunchy texture derived from the sesame seeds and a sticky sweetness from the jaggery. Its flavor profile combines the nutty essence of roasted with the caramel-like sweetness of , delivering a warming sensation attributed to the inherent properties of these components, which helps combat winter chill.

Composition

Tilgul is primarily composed of sesame seeds, known as til in and , and , referred to as gul or gur, which together form the name "Tilgul." These two core ingredients provide the confection's essential structure, with sesame seeds serving as the base that imparts a crunchy texture and nutritional density, while jaggery acts as the binding agent that holds the mixture together upon cooling. Sesame seeds in Tilgul are typically white or black varieties, roasted to release their natural oils and enhance nuttiness, contributing to the sweet's warmth and oil-rich . White sesame seeds are more commonly used for their milder flavor, though black sesame, which contains phytosterols for potential benefits such as management. Jaggery is unrefined cane sugar, often in block form, which provides a molasses-like depth, iron content, while functioning as a natural and due to its low . Traditional proportions generally follow a near 1:1 ratio by volume of roasted seeds to melted , such as 1 cup sesame to about ¾–1 cup , with optional small amounts of added for smoothness and to prevent sticking. This balance ensures the sesame's crunch is preserved without overpowering the jaggery's sticky cohesion, resulting in a firm yet yielding confection that stores well. Sesame adds textural contrast and sustained energy through its healthy fats and calcium, while jaggery delivers quick sweetness and iron for nutritional fortification.

History and Origins

Ancient Roots

The origins of tilgul trace back to the ancient agricultural practices of the Indus Valley Civilization, where sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum) were domesticated and cultivated as one of the earliest oilseeds around 3050–3500 BCE. Archaeological evidence from the site of in present-day reveals charred sesame seeds in strata dated to this period, indicating their use in food and oil production within early urban settlements. This cultivation marked sesame as a staple in the region, providing a foundational ingredient for confections that would later evolve into tilgul. Sesame's significance deepened in the , with references to the plant appearing in the (circa 1500–1200 BCE), where it is termed "tila" and mentioned in contexts of rituals, offerings, and dietary use. These texts highlight their role in both ceremonial and everyday sustenance. By around 2000 BCE, cultivation had spread across the , supporting the development of harvest-based foods in agrarian societies. Sesame and jaggery traditions contributed to the evolution of harvest foods like tilgul in regions such as , where seasonal practices integrated the seeds and into nutrient-dense preparations to celebrate agricultural yields. processing for (), a key binder in tilgul, was documented by approximately 1000 BCE, with boiling techniques yielding a solid that complemented sesame's nutty profile. This likely arose from post-harvest preservation methods, ensuring sustenance during lean periods, though the specific confection of tilgul is primarily associated with later regional traditions. Prior to colonial influences, tilgul's components gained prominence in Ayurvedic medicine for their warming properties, valued in winter to balance bodily heat and support vitality—sesame for its oil-rich, thermogenic qualities and for enhancing digestion and energy. Texts like the (circa 300 BCE–200 CE) emphasize sesame's role in formulations to counter cold-season ailments, predating its formalized festival ties and underscoring tilgul's roots in holistic health practices.

Mythological Associations

In Hindu mythology, sesame seeds, a key ingredient in tilgul, are associated with divine origins linked to Lord Vishnu. According to legends recounted in the Padma Purana and Garuda Purana, these seeds emerged as blessed drops from Vishnu's sweat during a period of intense exertion, often connected to the Samudra Manthan, or churning of the cosmic ocean, where gods and demons collaborated to extract the nectar of immortality. This narrative imbues sesame with symbolic prosperity, representing abundance and the fruits of divine labor, as the seeds' oily essence is seen as a manifestation of cosmic vitality. Tilgul's components also tie into offerings for deities like and , the sun god, particularly during rituals marking the sun's northward path, known as Uttarayan. In these rites, sesame-based sweets are presented to invoke blessings for renewal and energy, with believed to harness that counters seasonal darkness and cold. This association underscores tilgul's role in symbolizing the triumph of light over winter's chill, as journey is celebrated alongside Vishnu's preservative force. Folk etymologies further connect "til" (sesame) to "tilak," the auspicious forehead mark in Hindu tradition, deriving from the Sanskrit "tila" for sesame seed. In regional tales, this link evokes divine blessings, portraying the tilak—and by extension tilgul—as a conduit for prosperity and spiritual protection, akin to marking one's life with godly favor. These narratives have perpetuated tilgul's symbolic warmth, believed to safeguard against winter's harshness while fostering communal harmony through shared prosperity.

Cultural Significance

Makar Sankranti Festival

Makar Sankranti is a prominent Hindu harvest festival celebrated primarily on January 14 each year, commemorating the sun's transit from Sagittarius (Dhanu rashi) to Capricorn (Makar rashi), known as Uttarayan, which signifies the end of winter and the onset of longer days following the winter solstice. This solar-based event holds a fixed date around mid-January across most regions of India, though slight variations occur due to local calendars, emphasizing its role as a pan-Indian celebration of agricultural prosperity and seasonal renewal. In Maharashtra, the festival underscores gratitude to the sun god for bountiful yields and marks the transition to spring. Tilgul, a sweet made from seeds and , occupies a central place in observances in , where it is exchanged as prasad during family gatherings, kite-flying competitions, and haldi-kumkum ceremonies involving women applying and for blessings. These activities foster community spirit, with tilgul distributed among relatives, neighbors, and friends to symbolize warmth and goodwill amid the winter chill. The tradition ties into the broader festival ethos, often accompanied by the brief phrase "Tilgul ghya, god god bola," encouraging sweet speech. The festival's agricultural roots are deeply intertwined with the harvest season in , including the ripening of kharif and rabi crops, from which tilgul derives its key ingredients, thereby representing abundance and the fruits of labor after the rainy season. In contemporary times, observances include feasts featuring tilgul alongside other seasonal foods, reinforcing bonds through shared meals and distributions that extend to wider networks beyond immediate family.

Traditions and Symbolism

In , the tradition of sharing tilgul during social gatherings is accompanied by the greeting "Tilgul ghya, god god bola," which translates to "Eat tilgul, speak sweetly," encouraging recipients to foster harmony through kind words and positive interactions. This phrase underscores the sweet's role in promoting and , drawing on its warming and binding qualities to mend relationships strained by discord. Sesame seeds in tilgul symbolize immortality, believed to be blessed by Yama, the god of death, and associated with eternal life in Hindu rituals, while the oil content represents prosperity and abundance. Jaggery, the other key ingredient, embodies sweetness in life and relationships, signifying the infusion of joy and harmony into interpersonal bonds. Social customs involve exchanging tilgul among married women during haldi-kumkum ceremonies, where and are applied for auspiciousness, along with gifts to invoke blessings. It is also offered to newlyweds and elders as a of respect and to seek their blessings for prosperity and well-being. In Ayurvedic tradition, tilgul is regarded as possessing ushna virya, or heating potency, which generates internal body heat to counter the , or cooling effect, of winter, thereby supporting vitality during the cold season. This symbolic warmth extends metaphorically to nurturing positive speech and emotional bonds, reinforcing the sweet's cultural emphasis on unity and gentle communication.

Preparation

Ingredients

Traditional Tilgul, a sweet confection associated with the festival, primarily consists of sesame seeds, , and as its core ingredients. For a standard batch, the recipe typically calls for 1 cup of white sesame seeds, 1 cup of grated , and 1-2 tablespoons of (), which together form the binding and flavor base of the sweet. Optional additions enhance flavor and texture without altering the traditional essence; these include ¼ teaspoon of powder for a subtle aromatic note, crushed or chana for and crunch. These elements contribute to the confection's warming properties in the final composition but are not essential. In terms of sourcing, organic is preferred for its purity and unrefined quality, avoiding additives common in processed sugars, while seeds should be lightly roasted in advance to release their nutty aroma and ensure even integration. The specified quantities for the core ingredients yield approximately 20-25 pieces, making it scalable for festival preparations where larger batches are common. To maintain authenticity, substitutions should be minimal; refined sugar is avoided in favor of to preserve the traditional health benefits and flavor profile, while black seeds can replace white ones for a nuttier variant.

Traditional Methods

The traditional preparation of Tilgul, a classic sweet, involves a straightforward yet precise process that highlights the natural binding properties of and the nutty flavor of seeds. This method ensures the achieves a chewy texture without modern equipment, relying on careful heat control to prevent or burning. Authentic techniques emphasize low, even heating to preserve the ingredients' nutritional integrity and cultural essence during festivals like . The process begins with dry roasting the sesame seeds. In a heavy-bottomed pan over low heat, the seeds are stirred continuously for 5-7 minutes until they turn golden and release a rich, aromatic fragrance, enhancing their flavor and removing excess moisture. This step is crucial for texture and is then followed by setting the roasted seeds aside to cool slightly, preventing sogginess when combined later. Using a heavy-bottomed pan here helps distribute evenly and avoid scorching the seeds. Next, the is melted with a small amount of in a to form a . The mixture is heated gently until it reaches the soft-ball stage, approximately 240°F (115°C), where a tested in cold water forms a soft, pliable ball that firms upon cooling. This stage is verified by the water-drop test to ensure the right consistency for binding without becoming too hard or sticky. Overcooking the jaggery should be avoided to maintain its natural stickiness and molasses-like depth. Once the syrup is ready, the roasted sesame seeds are quickly mixed into the molten , stirred vigorously to coat them evenly and distribute the heat. The mixture is then poured onto a greased surface, such as a slab or plate, or shaped into small balls or bars by hand while still warm and pliable, taking advantage of the brief window before it hardens. This rapid incorporation prevents uneven setting and ensures a uniform . Finally, the formed Tilgul is allowed to cool and harden at for about 30 minutes until firm. It is then stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place, where it remains fresh for up to a month, retaining its chewiness and flavor. This storage method protects against humidity, a common concern in Maharashtra's .

Variations

Ladoo Form

The Ladoo form of Tilgul, known as Tilgul Ladoo, consists of round balls typically measuring 1-2 inches in , shaped by hand-pressing a semi-molten mixture of roasted sesame seeds and while it remains warm and pliable. This shaping process, adapted from the foundational preparation of tilgul, allows the mixture to bind firmly without requiring additional cooking stages specific to the ball form. Preparation tweaks for the ladoo variant include incorporating slightly more relative to seeds to enhance binding and cohesion, ensuring the balls hold their shape during handling. The formed ladoos are frequently rolled in additional roasted seeds for an extra coating that adds crunch and visual appeal. In terms of texture, Tilgul Ladoo features a softer interior compared to the harder flat tilgul , offering a bite that balances the nutty with the caramel-like , making it particularly suitable for gifting in trays during festive occasions. These ladoos are traditionally made in bulk for distribution at celebrations in , where they are shared among and as symbols of warmth and , with a shelf life of up to 1-2 months when stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Particularly popular in households, Tilgul Ladoo serves as a portable sweet ideal for children and elders, providing a nutritious, easy-to-eat treat that aligns with the festival's emphasis on and community bonding.

Vadi Form

The Vadi form, also known as Tilgul Vadi or Papdi, is a brittle slab variation of tilgul, created by pouring the hot sesame-jaggery mixture into thin layers on a greased surface to cool and harden into crackable pieces. This form emphasizes a crisp, shard-like ideal for snacking, often prepared in large sheets and broken into irregular shapes for easy sharing during . The preparation mirrors the basic tilgul method but skips shaping, allowing the syrup to set naturally for a harder consistency compared to ladoos. It is commonly coated with extra seeds and stored similarly, offering the same nutritional benefits in a more durable format for longer storage and distribution.

Poli Variant

The Poli variant of tilgul, known as Gul Poli or Tilgul Poli, is a sweet stuffed originating from , where it serves as a distinctive adaptation of the traditional sesame-jaggery confection. Unlike the unbound forms, this variant features a paratha-like structure made from that encases a rich, dry filling of roasted seeds, , , and seeds, then cooked on a to achieve a exterior. This preparation transforms the simple tilgul into a layered dish that combines the chewiness of with the nutty sweetness of the stuffing, making it a staple during winter festivals. Preparation begins with kneading a soft from a mixture of , all-purpose , , and a touch of oil or , which is rested to ensure pliability. The filling is crafted separately by roasting seeds and seeds until aromatic, grinding them coarsely, and blending with roasted and grated or melted , often flavored with and for depth. Portions of dough are rolled into small circles, stuffed with the filling, sealed, and gently rolled out again before being cooked on a hot tawa with until both sides are browned and crisp, typically taking a few minutes per side. This method highlights the contrast between the tender and the textured, sweet interior, with the roasting of briefly aligning with broader tilgul techniques but adapted here for a cohesive . In Maharashtra, Gul Poli is particularly associated with the Makar Sankranti festival, where it is prepared alongside basic tilgul confections to add variety to festive feasts and symbolize community and positivity through the shared greeting "tilgul ghya aani god god bola" (accept tilgul and speak sweetly). It is served hot, drizzled with additional ghee to enhance its richness, and enjoyed as part of a larger meal that emphasizes warmth and nourishment during the harvest season. The dish's elaborate stuffing process reflects its role in celebratory gatherings, providing a more substantial option compared to simpler sweets.

References

  1. [1]
    Tilgul: A Indian sweet that encourages kind words - BBC
    Jan 14, 2024 · During the festival of Makar Sankranti, this warming sweet made with sesame and jaggery goads us to speak kind words and ultimately walk the ...
  2. [2]
    Tilgul - Sweets for the Hindu Makar Sakranti Festival - Honest Cooking
    40 minTilgul is a colourful sesame candy coated with sesame seeds, often served on Makar Sakranti, a Hindu festival celebrated on 14 January.
  3. [3]
    Makar Sankranti – Department of Tourism Maharashtra
    One of the key traditions is exchanging sesame seeds and jaggery (tilgul), symbolizing unity, love, and goodwill among friends and family. In Maharashtra ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  4. [4]
    Sesame and jaggery based sweets from different parts of India
    Jan 10, 2024 · Til Ladoo also known as Tilgul is a popular sweet made with sesame seeds and jaggery. It is often offered as a prasad and later distributed ...
  5. [5]
    Makar Sankranti 2025: 6 sweet dishes to prepare on Makar Sankranti
    Jan 11, 2025 · Tilgul Laddoo. Tilgul laddoo is the signature dish of Makar Sankranti. It is said to symbolize the sweetness of relationships. Sesame seeds and ...
  6. [6]
    Healthy eating: This is what makes til-gul the ultimate winter ...
    Jan 23, 2023 · The oil present in sesame helps in generating body heat that keeps the internal body temperature warm,” she further wrote. Similarly, jaggery is ...
  7. [7]
    Evidence for cultivation of sesame in the ancient world
    Excavations at the Indus civilization site of Harappa have yielded charred sesame from a stratum attributed to 3050–3500 B.C. The Vedic scriptures (ca. 1000B. ...
  8. [8]
    Sesame Seeds (Sesamum indicum) - gernot-katzers-spice-pages.
    In India, where sesame is cultivated since the Harappan period, there are two independent names for it: Sanskrit tila [तिल] appears alredy in the Rigveda and is ...
  9. [9]
    Jaggery (Gur): The Ancient Indian Open-pan Non-centrifugal Sugar
    Apr 8, 2021 · Jaggery also known as gur in India, panela in Colombia or rapadura in Brazil, a non-centrifugal sugar (NCS), is an ancient nutritive sweetener used in food ...
  10. [10]
    Sesame Seeds in Ayurveda: Nutritional Benefits, Uses & Healing ...
    Jun 28, 2025 · Sesame seeds, or tila in Sanskrit, are celebrated for their nourishing and life-enhancing properties. They're considered especially rejuvenative ...
  11. [11]
    Why Til/ Sesame seeds are so important for Lord Shiva Puja and ...
    Sep 9, 2025 · From ancient myths to modern-day rituals, sesame seeds hold a sacred place in Shiva worship. They symbolize purity, immortality, and the ...Missing: associations | Show results with:associations
  12. [12]
    Makar Sankranti 2023: Importance of sesame seeds in Hinduism ...
    Jan 10, 2023 · Sesame seeds are said to be blessed by Lord Yama or the God of Death and this is why they are known as the 'seeds of immortality'.
  13. [13]
    What is the importance of Til (sesame seeds) during Makar Sankranti?
    ### Summary of Symbolism of Sesame Seeds, Immortality, and Relation to Tilgul or Sankranti
  14. [14]
    TILAK Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
    an ornamental spot worn on the forehead chiefly by Hindus as a sectarian mark. Word History. Etymology. Sanskrit tilaka; perhaps akin to Sanskrit tila ...
  15. [15]
    Why Hindus wear red tilak and sandal wood tilak on foreheads?
    Jun 19, 2014 · Tilak, a mark of Hindu Sanatan Dharma, comes from the Sanskrit word 'til' which means sesame seed. The sesame seed has great importance in ...Missing: etymology | Show results with:etymology
  16. [16]
    Til Gul Ghya God God Bola! Understanding The Significance Of 'Til ...
    Jan 14, 2025 · "Til Gul Ghya, God God Bola!" This traditional Maharashtrian greeting during Makar Sankranti reflects the spirit of the beloved festival.Missing: history ancient
  17. [17]
    This is why we eat Til and Gur on Makar Sankranti - Times of India
    Jan 11, 2021 · The combo of Til and Gur actually comes from Maharasthian phrase 'Til, gud ghya ni god god bola'. This is a common expression used to greet ...Missing: mythology | Show results with:mythology
  18. [18]
    Festival Today (January 14, 2025): Makara Sankranti Rituals for ...
    Jan 14, 2025 · January 14, 2025, is the Makara Sankranti day as the Sun enters the Makara Rashi or Capricorn sign. This great astronomical change marks the ...
  19. [19]
    Sweet and nutty gul poli (गुळपोळी) for Makar Sankranti - The Hindu
    Jan 13, 2025 · Celebrate Makar Sankranti with traditional Gul Poli recipe, a sweet sesame-jaggery stuffed flatbread symbolizing togetherness and warmth.<|control11|><|separator|>
  20. [20]
    Til-gul, Undhiyu for Sankranti & Uttrayan - Seniors Today
    Jan 14, 2020 · In Maharashtra, people give til-gul to each other and take blessings from the elders. Married women also give haldi-kumkum to each other as a ...
  21. [21]
    Makar Sankranti- Sweet Surprises to Rejuvenate Health & Immunity ...
    Oct 10, 2022 · In this Ritu commonly known as shishir, the combination of sesame and jaggery melts gives warmth and liquifies the kapha dosha which helps to ...
  22. [22]
    Til ke Laddu | Sesame Laddu - Dassana's Veg Recipes
    Rating 4.9 (40) · 20 minsJul 3, 2025 · Til Ke Laddu simply means laddu or sweetened balls made from white sesame seeds and jaggery. While growing up in a Maharashtrian community in ...
  23. [23]
    EASY Til Laddu | Til Ke Laddu | Tilache Ladoo - Ministry of Curry
    Rating 4.8 (25) · 40 minJan 11, 2021 · Til laddu are sweet dessert balls made from sesame seeds and jaggery. A traditional recipe from Western India, Til Laddu is also known as "Tila ...
  24. [24]
    Tilache Ladoo - Marathi Recipe
    Rating 5.0 (1) Jan 6, 2018 · Ingredients · 3/4 cup white sesame seeds · 1/2 cup Gudh / Jaggery · 1/4 cup Roasted peanut powder · 1/2 tsp Cardamom powder · 1 tbsp Milk · 1 tbsp ...
  25. [25]
    Gulachi Poli Recipe (Jaggery And Poppy Seeds Stuffed Para...
    Rating 5.0 (1,012) · 50 minOct 4, 2017 · Tilgul Poli or Gulachi poli is a traditional delicacy from Maharashtrian Cuisine. It is basically a Jaggery, Sesame seeds and Poppy seeds ...
  26. [26]
    Til Ke Laddu (Sesame Seeds Ladoo) - Swasthi's Recipes
    Rating 5.0 (42) · 20 minFeb 5, 2023 · Til ke laddu are a festive sweet snack made with sesame seeds, jaggery and cardamom powder. This post shares 4 ways to make.
  27. [27]
    Til Ladoo | Tilgul Ladoo | Sesame Seed Ladoo - My Cooking Journey
    Rating 5.0 (6) · 20 minJan 13, 2019 · Til Ladoo or Tilgul Ladoo or Sesame Seed Ladoo is a Sankranti special sweet from Maharashtra. A traditional sweet made with sesame and jaggery to heat the body ...
  28. [28]
    [PDF] c ontents
    Jan 26, 2020 · In Maharashtra on Makara Sankranti day people exchange multi-coloured halwa and til-gul laadoo. Gulachi poli/puran poli and some gram flour, ...
  29. [29]
    Indian Sweets That Last Long Without Refrigeration (at Room ...
    May 18, 2025 · Shelf Life: Up to 1-2 months. Tilgul (Maharashtra). Why It Lasts: A Makar Sankranti special made from sesame seeds and jaggery, Tilgul is dry ...Missing: trays bulk
  30. [30]
    Gul Poli Recipe (Maharashtrian Jaggery & Sesame Stuffed F...
    Rating 4.9 (15,519) · 1 hr 20 minJan 9, 2017 · Gul Poli is prepared on the day of 'Makar Sankranti', the harvest festival. Maharashtrians prepare this traditional 'Gul Poli', Tilgul Vadi ...
  31. [31]
    Tilachi Poli {Sweet Sesame Parathas} - Ministry of Curry
    Rating 5.0 (2) · 50 minJan 5, 2020 · A flatbread or paratha made with sweet sesame filling rolled in whole wheat dough. Tilachi means made with sesame seeds and Poli means a stuffed paratha.