Ariselu – The Golden Sweet of Telugu Traditions by Pravindra Adari - 13 October 2025
“Every Deepavali, as the golden glow of lamps filled our home, the aroma of my mother’s Ariselu filled our hearts.” A Memory Wrapped in Sweetness As a child, I remember that sweet smell and taste of Ariselu all too well. My mother, Bhugwathie Rapeti , was popular in our Telugu community for making Ariselu — people from far and wide across South Africa and within the Telugu diaspora sought out these golden biscuits made by her loving hands. She would joyfully prepare batch after batch for weddings, prayers, Deepavali, and Ram Bhajan festivals, often at her own cost. Even today, after she has transitioned, her recipe continues to be sought by many. Learnt from her own mother, she mastered the art and became renowned for this craft. On this special occasion of Deepavali , Prerana Paatashaala is delighted to share her treasured recipe with all. The Cultural Legacy of Ariselu Ariselu (అరిసెలు) is one of the most cherished sweets from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana , symbolizing pr...