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The gulgula’s unique taste comes from a simple mixture of flour, sugar, dry ginger, and a touch of soda, which is then fried traditionally on a wooden stove
The gulgula stall is open daily from 12 noon to 8 pm. The steady stream of customers reflects the community’s love for the dish. (Local18)
Gumla in Jharkhand preserves the charm of the traditional dish gulgula even amidst the rise of modern food culture. The taste and affordable price of this regional delicacy make it immensely popular among the locals.
Gulgula: A simple yet special dish
The specialty of gulgula, available for just Re 1 per piece, is that it not only fills the stomach, but also remains light on the wallet. Its unique taste comes from a simple mixture of flour, sugar, dry ginger, and a touch of soda, which is then fried traditionally on a wooden stove. People relish it with spicy chutney and pea-curry. This flour-based dish is considered safe for health and is enjoyed by children, youth, and the elderly alike.
Phoole Devi’s hard work
In conversation with Local18, stall owner Phoole Devi shared that she started this stall about five to six years ago to support her family financially. Her husband, who worked in a hotel, taught her the art of making gulgula, and now, her daughter also helps at the stall after school or during holidays. Along with gulgula, Phoole Devi offers other dishes like samosas, kachoris, and jalebi.
Affordable and unique
The standout feature of the gulgula stall is its unbeatable taste and affordable pricing. With one piece of gulgula costing just Re 1 and a full meal available for Rs 10, it easily surpasses any major fast-food chain. Customers are drawn to its simplicity and flavour. Phoole Devi emphasises that her goal is not merely to earn profit but to provide tasty and healthy breakfasts to the community.
Prakash, a customer who frequently visits the stall, mentioned that he often travels 12km from Gumla headquarters just to savour the dish. “The gulgula here is amazing. You cannot find such a tasty and satisfying snack for just Rs 10 anywhere else.” Many customers like Prakash journey from afar to enjoy this delicious and inexpensive treat.
The stall is open daily from 12 noon to 8 pm, and the steady stream of customers reflects the community’s love for gulgula. The fame of this stall has now spread far and wide, and the people of Gumla proudly consider it a representation of their regional culinary heritage.