Popular Cuisine – Golgappa
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Indian Cuisine |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | November 3, 2017 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Perforation | 13¾ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Brahm Prakash |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3240 Yvert et Tellier IN 2931 Stanley Gibbons IN 3384 |
| Themes | Food | Gastronomy |
India’s Most Loved Street Delight
Among India’s most iconic and irresistible street foods, Golgappa holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers across the country. Celebrated for its burst of tangy, spicy, and refreshing flavours, Golgappa represents the Popular Cuisine category in the commemorative postage stamp series released by the Department of Posts.
A Flavourful Experience in a Single Bite
Golgappa is a unique combination of taste and texture—a crisp, hollow puri filled with a delightful mixture of flavoured water (imli pani), potatoes, chickpeas, onions, chaat masala, and chutneys. With every bite, it delivers an explosion of flavours that captivate the senses, making it one of India’s most cherished snacks.
A Snack with Many Names, One Love
The charm of Golgappa lies not only in its taste but also in the cultural identity it carries across regions. Though the recipe remains largely similar, the name changes as one travels across India:
- Pani Puri – Maharashtra
- Golgappa – Delhi & Uttar Pradesh
- Phuchka – West Bengal & Bihar
- Paani ke Batashe – Haryana
- Fulki – Madhya Pradesh
- Pakodi – Gujarat
- Gup Chup – Odisha, South Jharkhand & Chhattisgarh
Each region adds its own twist to the flavoured water and stuffing, creating distinct yet equally loved versions of this snack.
A Cultural Symbol of Indian Street Food
From bustling marketplaces to festive gatherings, street corners to food stalls, Golgappa is more than just a snack—it is an experience that brings people together. Relished by all age groups, its charm lies in the joy of eating it one piece at a time, often in a friendly competition of “who can eat the most!”
Its widespread popularity makes Golgappa a powerful representation of India’s vibrant and diverse street food culture.
Honoured Through a Commemorative Stamp
The release of a postage stamp on Golgappa celebrates:
- Its iconic status in Indian street cuisine
- Its nationwide appeal across cultures, communities, and regions
- Its contribution to India’s culinary identity
This recognition immortalises Golgappa as a symbol of India’s shared food heritage and street-food traditions.
Conclusion
Crispy, tangy, spicy, and utterly delightful, Golgappa continues to reign as one of India’s most beloved street foods. The commemorative stamp honours this timeless favourite that captures the flavour, fun, and spirit of Indian street cuisine.