Til Gud for Sankranti: Why Sesame and Jaggery Rule India's Winter Harvest Festivals

• Sesame (til) and jaggery (gur) are central to India's winter harvest festivals like Sankranti, Bihu, and Pongal, symbolizing warmth and nourishment.
• Sesame seeds are nutritionally dense, rich in healthy fats, protein, calcium, iron, and zinc, providing warmth and sustained energy during colder months.
• Jaggery offers sweetness and strength, retaining minerals like iron and potassium, aiding digestion, and providing steady energy without sugar spikes.
• Together, til and jaggery form a balanced duo, boosting energy, supporting bone health, improving hemoglobin, and keeping the body warm.
• These ingredients are used in festive treats like laddoos, chikkis, and pithas across various regions, with modern kitchens also incorporating them into new recipes.

Why It Matters: Sesame and jaggery are vital, nutritious ingredients celebrated in India's winter harvest festivals for warmth and health.