With Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 almost here, the excitement of the 10-day celebrations has begun to ascertain its grip over devotees. For foodies, the delicious treats that one gets to indulge in guilt-free is another extra reason why this is perhaps the best time of the year. One of these delights that is central to Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations is the humble yet tempting modak.

　　Derived from the Sanskrit world "moda," meaning "bliss," this traditional sweet offered as prasad is considered to be Lord Ganesha's favourite. In fact, there are several lores explaining how it may have come to become his favourite. While one tale suggests that Goddess Menavati (Ganesha's maternal grandmother) began offering modaks in place of laddoos to satiate Ganesha's unending appetite, another tale recounts how it was Devi Anusuya who served Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati and Ganesha these delectable creations. While devotees can choose to believe either one of the two, one thing is certain, and that is Ganesha's love for modaks, which is why the celebrations are incomplete without the offering of twenty-one modaks.

　　Given that the demand for modaks surges during this time of the year, it is impossible not to find it in most Mithai shops. But if you're looking for the best ones, here are the top places to buy the best modak in Mumbai:

　　Modakam, Prabhadevi

　　Located right outside the Siddhivinayak Temple, Modakam is one of the most sought-after mithai shops in Mumbai if you want to bag the authentic ukadiche modaks. The best part is that the modaks are their speciality and their trusted staff is deft at ensuring the shelves never run out of it. While you must go for the traditional ones, you can also choose from different flavour combinations, such as saffron modak, white milk modak, chocolate modak, etc.

　　Address: 8/1, Kamana Co-operative Society, Raobahadur SK Bole Rd, Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400025

　　Panshikar, Vile Parle and Dadar West

　　Operating since 1921, Panshikar is a household name and for all the right reasons. Their ukadiche modaks are known to be one of the most authentic ones in the city and are also relatively cost-friendlier with a box of 5 priced at approximately INR 75 only. You can also check out other interesting variants, like chocolate, kesar, mawa and more. They have also introduced a pack of frozen modaks that you can store and steam when you want to serve it fresh.

　　Address: 18, Gananath CHS, Senapati Bapat Road, Dadar West, Mumbai

　　Bombay Sweet Shop, Byculla

　　There's no doubt that headache modak is the real deal, but if you are up for trying interesting spins, then Bombay Sweet Shop is where you must head. Known for infusing traditional Indian sweets with unique twists and flavour combos, Bombay Sweet Shop goes above and beyond to bring modak in an all-new avatar every Ganesh Chaturthi. They've got variants like chocolate fudge, puran poli and pista khubani modaks. The best part is that you can also pre-order them online!

　　Address: JAK Compound, 1, 1, Keshavrao Borker Marg, Dhaku Prabhuchi Wadi, Byculla East, Byculla, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400027

　　Patil Kaki

　　Everything's better when it is made lovingly at home—even modaks. If you are wondering where you can find the kind of taste that will instantly remind you of home, then Patil Kaki is your answer. Founded by Geeta Patil in 2016, the brand promises to deliver quality, handmade snacks and sweets, and it helps that ukadiche modaks happen to be one of their specialities. Since the modaks are made in batches, be quick to place your order on their website, patilkaki.com.

　　Aaswad, Dadar

　　Another trusted establishment among Mumbaikars, Aaswad takes the prize home when it comes to serving the most authentic Maharashtrian fare. While patrons frequent Aaswad for their shrikhand and puranpoli during the rest of the year, this month you will find people from even the suburbs make their way for the modaks. The best part about their modak is that it is served with fresh ghee, giving it that extra bit of flavour and indulgence. They are quick to run out of them, so be sure to ring them up and place an order.

　　Address: Sanskruti Building Gadkari Chauk, 4, Lady Jamshedji Rd, opp. Shiv Sena Bhavan, Dadar West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400028