Kalyan: Traditional ukadiche modaks, fried modaks, along with innovative varieties such as khoya, chocolate, gulab, mango and dry fruit modaks, added flavour and festivity to the Modak Festival held at Sharda Vidya Mandir in Kalyan.

The Modak Festival 2026 was organised by Subhedarwada Katta, Uttar Maharashtra Khandesh Vikas Mandal, Kalyan Vikas Foundation and Rotary Club of New Kalyan as part of the Ganesh festival celebrations.

The modak competition received an encouraging response from women participants. For the first time, a ‘Delicious and Nutritious Food Competition’ was also organised, where parents and students participated together to highlight the importance of healthy eating habits.

Women presented a variety of modaks, including traditional steamed modaks, fried varieties and modern flavours such as chocolate and dry fruit. The attractive presentation and unique tastes added excitement to the competition.

In the modak competition, Riddhi Dhumal secured the first place, followed by Padma Khandekar in second place and Gayatri Lavangde in third place. Swati Bhosale, Sheetal Kasodekar and Sunanda Kadam received consolation prizes.

In the nutritious food competition, Pratik Joshi bagged the first prize, while Lamha Meghrajani and Suryamala Male secured the second and third positions respectively. The winners were felicitated with trophies, certificates and gifts.

The competitions were judged by Chef Aarti Nipajkar, dietician Sneha Geete and Ayurveda expert Dr Pratiksha Ghodvinde. They guided participants on various methods of preparing modaks, the importance of a balanced diet and adopting a healthy lifestyle.