Sonia Gandhi recalls Kashmiri sweet rice served at Indira Gandhi's home

Food often carries memories of family traditions, and for Sonia Gandhi, a particular Kashmiri rice preparation remains closely associated with festive celebrations at her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi's home. Recalling those occasions in a recent conversation with her daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and granddaughter Miraya Vadra, Sonia spoke about the Kashmiri food served during festivals at 1, Safdarjung Road.

She remembered a sweet rice dish that the family continues to prepare. Although she did not mention its name, her description is reminiscent of Modur Pulav, a traditional Kashmiri preparation made with rice, saffron, dry fruits and aromatic spices.

What is Modur Pulav?

Modur Pulav, also spelt Modur Pulao, is a traditional Kashmiri sweet rice dish. Unlike savoury pulao varieties, it gets its distinctive taste from sugar, ghee and fragrant spices. The word 'Modur' means sweet in Kashmiri, while 'Pulav' refers to the rice preparation.

The dish is commonly associated with festive and celebratory meals, particularly in Kashmiri households. Its delicate sweetness and fragrant ingredients set it apart from everyday rice preparations.

“On festivals we always used to have Kashmiri food and that sweet rice, like that, which we still make, by the way," Sonia recalled.

How is Modur Pulav prepared?

Basmati rice forms the base of this preparation. It is cooked with ghee, sugar, saffron, cardamom and cinnamon, with almonds, cashews and raisins added for texture and richness.

Saffron lends the rice its characteristic golden colour, while the dry fruits add a mild crunch. The combination of sweetness, ghee and aromatic spices gives Modur Pulav its distinct flavour.

In Kashmiri Pandit cuisine, sweet rice has traditionally featured in festive and ceremonial meals. The dish is therefore more than just a dessert-like rice preparation — it also reflects the region's food customs.

A Kashmiri tradition passed down generations

Sonia's recollection also highlights the Nehru-Gandhi family's Kashmiri Pandit roots and the food traditions associated with them.

She remembered Diwali celebrations at Indira Gandhi's residence, where earthen lamps illuminated the pond, veranda, rooftop and garden pathways. The mention of sweet rice alongside these memories offers a glimpse into how family recipes and festive customs continue across generations.