Traditional Telugu foods make a comeback for Sankranti with ready made combos and delivery apps

Vijayawada: As the Sankranti harvest festival nears, traditional Telugu foods are making a strong return across Andhra Pradesh, blending age-old flavours with modern convenience. Delicacies such as ariselu, chakralu, murukku, gavvalu, and kajjikayalu — once prepared collectively in joint families — continue to define the festive spread even as lifestyles change.Earlier, Sankranti meant homes filled with the aroma of freshly fried sweets, with elders and youngsters working together in kitchens. But with nuclear families, busy schedules, and urban living becoming the norm, fewer households prepare these delicacies at home. Instead, demand for ready-made festive foods has surged.Sensing the trend, home food entrepreneurs stepped in with curated Sankranti combos. "People want authentic taste but don't have the time or space to cook like before. We prepare everything using traditional methods, and the response was overwhelming this season," said Sandaka Lakshmi Devi, who runs a popular outlet in Vijayawada.Consumers say the shift lets them enjoy tradition without stress. "I grew up watching my grandmother make ariselu for hours. Now, with work and two children, buying from trusted home food makers is the best option. It still feels festive," said Mandali Anusha, a software employee.Food delivery apps have further reshaped the Sankranti market, taking sweets and snacks straight to doorsteps. Alongside delicacies, some platforms also deliver festive essentials and traditional attire. "During Sankranti, our orders rise sharply, especially for traditional sweets. People want everything delivered quickly so they can focus on celebrations," said Komma Srinivas, a delivery executive.With tradition meeting technology, Sankranti celebrations are evolving — yet the love for Telugu flavours remains unchanged, proving that festive spirit adapts while keeping its roots intact.