By Akshara
October 16, 2026
Maha Navami marks the culmination of Navratri festivities, where a sacred Mahabhog khichdi is traditionally prepared as a prasadam offering alongside kala chana and halwa. Made without onions or garlic, this comforting one-pot meal combines nutrient-dense rice, moong dal, and seasonal vegetables tempered gently in pure ghee with cumin, ginger, and warming spices.
1 cup basmati rice or daily cooking rice, washed and soaked for 20 minutes  1/2 cup yellow split moong dal, rinsed  3 tablespoons pure ghee  1 teaspoon cumin seeds  1/2 teaspoon grated ginger  1 green chilli, slit  1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder  1 teaspoon coriander powder  Rock salt (sendha namak) or regular salt to taste  5 cups water  Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Heat pure ghee in a pressure cooker or heavy-bottomed pot, add the cumin seeds, grated ginger, and slit green chilli, letting them sputter gently.
Add the drained rice and yellow moong dal to the pot, sautéing them in the ghee for two minutes.
Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt, mixing well to coat the grains.
Pour in five cups of water, secure the pressure cooker lid, and cook for four to five whistles (or simmer covered in a pot for twenty-five minutes) until the khichdi is soft, creamy, and thoroughly cooked, then garnish with fresh coriander.