Ambaji Mohanthal, a traditional sweet deeply linked to faith, history and heritage, is nearing Geographical Indication (GI) status, a move that would officially recognise and protect its unique identity and centuries-old tradition.
Prepared exclusively as the sacred ‘Raj Bhog’ offered to goddess Ambaji Mata, the sweet is an integral part of daily rituals at the Ambaji Mata Temple in Danta taluka of Banaskantha district. More than just a dessert, it holds immense religious and cultural significance for devotees.
According to sources, Ambaji Mohanthal is distinguished by its mustard-yellow colour, granular texture, rich aroma and melt-in-the-mouth sweetness, setting it apart from other sweets sold as mohanthal.
Rooted in tradition
As stated in the application filed by the Shree Arashuri Ambaji Mata Devsthan Trust, Ambaji Mohanthal is prepared using pure cow ghee, chana atta (besan), sugar syrup, milk and cardamom, following a precise method preserved over generations. Skilled roasting, controlled temperatures and carefully balanced ingredients give the sweet its signature flavour and texture, which, the application notes, cannot be replicated outside the temple’s sacred kitchen.
Officials said ancient scriptures such as the Skand Puran and Devi Bhagwat mention offerings described as ‘Ghrit Mishrit Chana ka Churan’, believed to be the scriptural origin of this prasad.
GI application
Recognising its cultural and religious importance, the Shree Arashuri Ambaji Mata Devsthan Trust filed a GI application for Ambaji Mohanthal on April 18, 2024, with the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks (CGPDTM). Registered under the food category as ‘Ambaji Mohanthal’, the application bears GI number 1228 and is currently under examination. Sources said approval is likely within the next three to five months.
Dr Unnat Pandit of the CGPDTM, under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), said the application is being examined following a consultative group meeting held in Ahmedabad.
Faith and heritage
Officials said that GI status will help protect the unique recipe, traditional preparation method and the sanctity of Ambaji Mohanthal as the sacred prasad of Maa Ambaji. It will also prevent unauthorised vendors from selling imitations under the same name, helping curb misuse and black-market practices.