Last week was the end of the yearly Navaratri Hindu Festival. And with its end comes the time to enjoy the fabulous feast and mouthwatering Ashtami Thali.
Ashtami in Sanskrit means the eight day.The eighth day of Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Mahagauri . Many people observe ritualistic vrat (fasting) as a mark of respect to the deity. Some people also do Kanya Puja or Kanjak on the auspicious day. For Bengalis, Durga Ashtami is the most pivotal day of the whole festival.
This is the day celebrated as the day of the victory of the good over evil as per the Hindu Traditions.
With this comes an opportunity for some great food and festivities and celebrations….
Since this has been a child hood affair for me ,I decided to try the so advertised Ashtami Thali from Indian Aroma Restaurant in Prague 8.They had this as special menu for the weekend.
I decided to enjoy the Ashtami Vegeterian Thali all by myself this time.The restaurant looked quiet from inside.There were few tables booked by guests.The atmosphere inside was calm with the serving staff serving the guests well in order.
I was greeted by the restaurant manager whom i know already from my previous visits here.
The Ashtami Thali Indian Aroma was brought in with love,respect and care to me.It consisted of the fluffy Poori.They were hot and tasted authentic Indian.The menu included some black chole (chick peas),aloo taamatar sabzi,Raita, Sabu dana cutlets. This all was accompanied by some so fresh looking and tasty Halwa ,which surely was cooked in some Desi Ghee as it tasted.
The Thali looked so temptating and mouth watering.I enjoyed every bit of it and for the drinks chose to go in simple with some coke.
After the filling experience I paid the bill at the counter as it usually works here with menu offerings. At the counter was greeted by Mrs Walia ,wife of the owner of the Restaurant Mr Vikas Walia. She shared their experiences and positives of the their Restaurant and how her husband is active in bringing up the Indian community in the Czech Republic.
He is one of the founding members of the Indian Community in the Czech Republic who organised recently Experience India festival in Prague 5,Andel.
The experience was extremely enchanting .The reminiscence of the Ashtami this year will definitely be in my mind till the next year:)
To the glory of the Festival…..
Enjoy your meals!!!
