Sakinalu is one of the most iconic traditional snacks of Telangana, deeply connected with festivals, harvest celebrations, and family traditions. More than just food, Sakinalu represents patience, craftsmanship, prosperity, and togetherness. It is especially prepared during the Makar Sankranti festival, when families gather to prepare and share festive foods made from freshly harvested rice.
Known for its crunchy texture and beautiful spiral shape, Sakinalu is handmade with care and skill, making it a cherished festive specialty passed down through generations.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The word Sakinalu is believed to come from the Telugu word “Chakinamu,” derived from “Chakram,” meaning wheel or circle, referring to its spiral shape.
Traditionally, farming communities prepared Sakinalu after harvest using freshly milled rice flour. It symbolized gratitude for a successful harvest and abundance in the household.
Preparation often became a community activity, where women gathered, shaped spirals together, and celebrated the festive season.
Ritual of Gowramma
In many Telangana households, Sakinalu preparation begins with a sacred ritual.
- Small idols of Gowramma (Goddess Gauri) and Pilla Gowramma (Lord Ganesha) are made from dough.
- Idols are decorated with turmeric and kumkum.
- First Sakinalu spirals are shaped as offerings for family prosperity.
- These sacred spirals are not fried and later placed under a Tulsi plant or tree.
This ritual connects cooking with devotion and blessings.
Sakinalu in Weddings – The Saare Tradition
Sakinalu plays an important role in Telangana wedding customs.
- Bride’s parents prepare large quantities of Sakinalu.
- These are sent with the bride to her new home.
- Groom’s family distributes them among relatives and neighbors.
- Preparing hundreds or even thousands of Sakinalu is considered a matter of pride.
This custom symbolizes sharing happiness and welcoming new family bonds.
What Makes Sakinalu Special?
- Made mainly with rice flour, unlike many snacks made from gram flour.
- Naturally gluten-free.
- Hand-shaped spirals, not machine-made.
- Light, crunchy, and long-lasting snack.
- Prepared using simple ingredients but requires skill.
The ability to shape perfect spirals without breaking them is a skill learned over time.
How to Make Sakinalu
Ingredients
- Rice flour – 2 cups
- Sesame seeds – 2 tbsp
- Ajwain (carom seeds) – 1 tsp (slightly crushed)
- Salt – to taste
- Oil – 1 tbsp (for dough)
- Water – as needed
- Oil – for deep frying
Preparation Method
- Take rice flour in a wide mixing bowl.
- Add sesame seeds, crushed ajwain, salt, and 1 tbsp oil.
- Mix all the ingredients well.
- Add water little by little and knead into a soft but firm dough.
- Spread a slightly wet clean cotton cloth on a flat surface.
- Take small portions of the dough and shape the sakinalu on the wet cloth using your fingers.
- Prepare a few sakinalu and keep them arranged on the cloth.
- Heat oil in a deep pan on medium flame.
- Carefully lift each sakinalu from the cloth and gently slide it into the hot oil.
- Fry on low to medium flame, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy.
- Remove and drain on tissue paper.
- Allow them to cool completely before storing.
Tips
- Rice flour should retain slight moisture to prevent cracks.
- Slightly wet cloth prevents sticking.
- Dough consistency is important—not too soft or hard.
- Fry on medium heat for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Practice improves spiral shaping skill.
Flavor Variations
Tella Sakinalu
Classic plain version with mild seasoning.
Karam Sakinalu
Spicy version with red chilli powder and garlic.
Pachi Mirchi Sakinalu
Made using fresh green chilli and garlic paste.
Nethi Sakinalu
Prepared with ghee for softer texture, suitable for children and elders.
Sakinala Podi
Broken sakinalu crushed with onions and chillies to create a savory crumble.
Health Benefits
- Sesame seeds provide calcium and healthy fats
- Ajwain helps improve digestion
- Homemade snacks are free from preservatives
Storage and Shelf Life
- Sakinalu stay fresh for 2–3 weeks in airtight containers.
- Cool completely before storing.
- Keep away from moisture to retain crispiness.
Symbolism of the Spiral Shape
The circular design symbolizes:
- Prosperity
- Continuity of life
- Unity of family
- Seasonal cycles and harvest abundance
Some families even maintain specific ring counts for ceremonial purposes.
Sakinalu in Modern Times
Today, ready-made Sakinalu are widely available, but homemade preparation remains emotionally significant. Families continue this tradition to preserve heritage and teach younger generations traditional cooking skills.