Ganjam’s traditional ‘Muan’ draws buyers from across Odisha during festive season

Muan is a traditional sweet eatable, familiar in almost every household of Odisha’s Ganjam district. It enjoys strong demand for its distinctive taste. The speciality of Ganjam’s Muan lies in its unique preparation and purity of ingredients, which makes it highly popular among consumers in and outside the district.

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Muan is a typical eatable prepared from Mudhi (puffed rice) and other ingredients.

Starting from Dhanu Sankranti to Makar Sankranti, Muan witnesses brisk sales in Berhampur markets. During this festive period, the sweet snack is prepared in large quantities following a long-standing tradition. Cashew nuts are fried in oil, coconuts are carefully chopped, and several people work together to prepare the sweet with precision and hygiene.

To enhance its flavour, pure cow ghee is used. Prices of Muan range from Rs 200 to Rs 600 per kilogram, depending on quality and ingredients. Every day, hundreds of kilograms of Muan are supplied not only within the State but also to markets outside Odisha.

Traditionally, Muan is sent to married daughters’ homes and shared with the relatives and friends during this season. As a result, sweet shops across Ganjam witness heavy footfall, reflecting the cultural and emotional value attached to this delicacy.

“Muan is usually prepared in Ganjam district for gifting to friends and relatives during the month-long festive season starting from Dhanu Sankranti up to Makar Sankranti,” a customer, Bhabani Shankar Patra, said to OTV.

“It reflects our tradition and esteem for the near and dear ones. I will send this packet of Muan, which I have purchased, to Hyderabad,” Bhabani Patra expressed.