Actors share their favourite winter food from different states of India

As the winter chill settles in, the season awakens a craving for tempting treats. To embrace this cozy time of year, &TV artists share their favorite winter snacks and the irresistible delights they look forward to enjoying. Among them are Aayudh Bhanushali (Young Atal from Atal), Smita Sable (Dhaniya from Bheema), Yogesh Tripathi (Daroga Happu Singh from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabi from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai). 

Aayudh Bhanushali, who plays young Atal in Atal, shares, "For me, winter is all about my mom’s delicious Gujarati cooking. Her undhiyu, made with fresh seasonal vegetables, methi muthiyas (fenugreek dumplings), and aromatic spices, is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a must-have in my tiffin, and even my co-stars can’t resist taking a bite! Another favourite is thepla, which pairs perfectly with chundo (sweet mango pickle) or curd, and methi na gota (fenugreek fritters) with green chutney. These homemade treats bring the warmth and love of home to the sets of Atal." 

Smita Sable, who plays Dhaniya in Bheema, says, "I look forward to winter for its traditional delicacies. I love bhakri with jhunka and thecha—a hearty and spicy combination. Tilgul ladoos, made with sesame seeds and jaggery, are another favourite, filled with warmth and nostalgia from my grandmother’s kitchen. On chilly nights, a cup of masala dudh (spiced milk) with saffron and dry fruits is my ultimate comfort. And nothing beats the sweetness of puran poli, a winter staple in Maharashtra, which I enjoy making for my family."

Yogesh Tripathi, aka Daroga Happu Singh from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, adds, "Winter brings back cherished memories from my childhood in Uttar Pradesh. Dishes like creamy makhan-malai or nimish and gur ke parathe with white butter fill me with nostalgia. Mumbai’s winter treats, like spicy pav bhaji, offer a completely different charm. Sharing these with my family makes the season even more special, blending the traditional flavors of UP with the vibrant food of Mumbai." 

Shubhangi Atre, who plays Angoori Bhabhi in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, adds, "Winter is magical, and for me, food is the highlight of the season. This year, I’ve been blending Indian traditions with western favourites. I’ve perfected pumpkin pie, inspired by my daughter’s stories from the US, and it has become a family favourite. From my roots in Indore, garadu chaat—spiced fried yam chunks—is a winter must-have. Recreating these dishes bridges the gap between home and faraway places, keeping my family connected through flavours and warmth."