The Sweet History of Chhena Poda in Odisha, India
Chhena Poda, a mouth-watering cheese-based dessert, is deeply ingrained in the culinary traditions of the eastern Indian state of Odisha. This beloved sweet is particularly renowned in specific regions, with a rich history that spans centuries.
The Birthplace: Ganjam District, Berhampur
The Ganjam district, especially the town of Berhampur, is considered the birthplace of Chhena Poda. Chhena Poda is made from freshly prepared chhena, or cottage cheese, mixed with sugar and flavored with cardamom or other spices before being baked until it develops a caramelized crust. This famous confection is celebrated for its unique taste and is a must-try during festivals and special occasions.
The Spread: Nayagarh and Puri Districts
The fame of Chhena Poda has spread far beyond its origins. In nearby Nayagarh district, a story attributes its invention to Sudarsan Sahu. One night, while experimenting with leftover cottage cheese, he added sugar and spices to it and left it in the warmth of an Indian chulha (a traditional clay oven). The next day, he was delighted to find a scrumptious dessert, thus giving birth to Chhena Poda. The town of Nimapada in Puri district is now renowned for its delicious Chhena Poda, especially in the Niagara area.
The Coastal Essence: Cuttack, Balasore, and Kendrapada
Today, Chhena Poda is not confined to a single region but can be found in many parts of coastal districts in Odisha, including Cuttack, Balasore, and Kendrapada. It is popular throughout the eastern part of Odisha, and its availability has grown exponentially. Most renowned sweet stalls in cities like Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Salepur now offer high-quality Chhena Poda.
Traditional Production in Lingaraj and Puri
The history of Chhena Poda in Odisha has some fascinating roots. One of the earliest mentions of this sweet is in the Old Town, a temple town near Bhubaneswar, known then as Old Town. Later, the quality Chhena Poda from Puri, known for its association with Lord Jagannatha, also gained prominence. As the taste and quality of Chhena Poda spread, it became widely available in the capital city of Bhubaneswar and its neighboring areas such as Salipur/Salepur, Cuttack, Pahala chhaka, and Hansapala. Each region brought its unique twist, leading to a diverse range of flavors and textures.
Today, Chhena Poda remains a beloved treat in Odisha, celebrated for its rich history, unique taste, and cultural significance. Whether you indulge in it during a festival or simply savor it as a special treat, Chhena Poda continues to be a cherished part of the state's culinary culture.