Odisha's iconic dessert Chhena Poda is set to receive a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, a move that could formally anchor its origins to Nayagarh and elevate its cultural and commercial value.
GI Application Process
The GI application has already been registered, with a consultative group meeting slated for May 28–29 to expedite the process under the Geographical Indications of Goods. If granted, it will not only safeguard the authenticity of the Odisha delicacy but also boost its recognition on a global stage.
A Smoky-Sweet Legacy Rooted in Nayagarh
Often described as India's answer to cheesecake, Chhena Poda — literally translating to 'burnt cheese' in Odia — is crafted from fresh cottage cheese, sugar, and semolina, and baked slowly until it develops its signature dark crust and caramelised depth. Infused with cardamom and dotted with raisins and cashews, the dessert stands out for its rustic preparation and rich, melt-in-the-mouth texture. Its origins are as charming as its flavour. Tracing back to around 1945 in Daspalla in Nayagarh, the dish is believed to have been born out of chance when sweet maker Sudarshan Sahoo left a chhena mixture in a warm oven overnight — an accident that led to one of Odisha's favourite confections.
Odisha's Experiments with Chhena Go a Long Way
Beyond Chhena Poda, Odisha's dessert repertoire is rich with chhena-based creations that follow distinct cooking techniques — from frying and steaming to simmering in sugar syrup. Classics such as Chhena Gaja, Chhena Jhilli, Chhena Mudki, and Chhena Payas highlight the versatility of cottage cheese in the region's culinary traditions.
Foods from Odisha That Have Received GI Tags
- Similipal Kai Chutney
- Koraput Kala Jeera Rice
- Dhenkanal Magji
- Khajudi Guda
- Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal
- Kandhamal Haladi
