Great Joy in Eating Puri’s Famous Khaja

Just as the holy land of Shreekhetra has gained global recognition for being the abode of Lord Jagannath, Puri has also carved a distinct place in the country for its golden beaches and a variety of delicious foods. Being a religious and tourist destination, Puri attracts pilgrims and tourists from across the country and abroad. To suit the diverse tastes of these visitors, Puri offers a wide range of delectable food items, among which the famous Shreekhetra Khaja stands out.

Some even refer to Khaja as Pheni. Known for its unique taste, Shreekhetra Khaja is popular both in India and overseas. Devotees visiting Puri not only seek the darshan of Lord Jagannath but also relish the Mahaprasad. On their return journey, they usually carry Khaja wrapped in palm-leaf packaging as a sacred souvenir.

Khaja is also one of the dry food offerings among the 56-item Chhappan Bhog served to Lord Jagannath in the temple. The ingredients required to prepare Khaja include refined flour (maida), pure ghee, sugar, and oil. Its appearance is long and multi-layered.

To prepare it, oil or ghee is first mixed well with maida to form a dough. The dough is then shaped into small round balls, rolled into thick flatbreads, and layered to form elongated Khaja shapes. These are then deep-fried over a low flame in oil or ghee. Once fried and cooled, they are dipped in sugar syrup for a while and then taken out to cool again. This results in the crispy and sweet Khaja.

Based on size and taste, Khaja comes in several varieties: Gedi Khaja, Medium Khaja, Soo Khaja, Petty Khaja, Bada Khaja, and Chalu Khaja. Depending on demand, special versions like Masala Khaja, Khasta Khaja, Pure Ghee Khaja, and Salty Khaja are also available in stores. Prices typically range from ₹100 to ₹500.

Around 1,000 people are directly or indirectly involved in this business. Numerous Khaja shops have opened around the Shrimandir (Jagannath Temple). Previously, there was a designated Khajapati (Khaja Market) near the temple’s Singhadwar (main gate), but due to a 75-meter clearance directive from Meghnad Pacheri (the temple wall), the Khajapati has been removed.

As a result, Khaja shops are now spread across various locations around the temple and throughout the city. Notable shops include Nrusimha Sweets, Narasimha Sweets, Taste and Twist, Ma Dakshina Kali Sweets, Lakshmi Nrusimha Khaja Shop, Bhagabati, Jagannath, and Jagabalia. Since the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, tourism in Puri has increased significantly, which in turn has boosted the Khaja business.