What Is Chhena Poda, Odisha’s Famous Dessert Set To Get GI-Tag Soon?

Chhena Poda is a traditional Indian cheesecake that is typically enjoyed in Odisha. This famous dessert, made using cottage cheese, is all set to get a Geographical Indication (GI) tag soon. Keep reading to know more about this dessert and why receiving this tag is a big deal for the state.

Chhena Poda From Odisha To Get A GI-Tag 

Chhena Poda, a dessert, is believed to have originated in Nayagarh, Odisha. It is a delicious Indian-style cheesecake made using fresh chhena (cottage cheese), sugar, and semolina. People usually bake it for several hours until it browns. The dessert is often flavoured with cardamom and garnished with raisins and cashews. Its name, “Chhena Poda”, literally translates to “burnt cheese” in Odia.

Now, the good news is that this dessert from Odisha might soon receive a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. According to The Free Press Journal, the GI application for Chhena Poda has been registered. A consultative group meeting is scheduled for May 28-29, 2026, to further process the application.

Also Read: Odisha Picks Chef Ranveer Brar As Brand Ambassador For Odia Cuisine; Here’s What It Means

Why A GI Tag For This Dessert Is Important

According to The Free Press Journal, the process of granting the GI tag will move ahead as per the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. The GI tag will officially link this famous dessert of Odisha to its place of origin in Nayagarh district. You should know that a GI tag will protect its authenticity. It will also boost its cultural and traditional significance.

Chhena Poda was accidentally created in 1947 by a sweet maker named Sudarshan Sahoo. He left a mixture of chhena, sugar, and semolina in a warm oven overnight. The next day, he discovered that the mixture had turned into a firm, caramelised dessert with a golden-brown colour and a unique smoky flavour.

There is no doubt that a Geographical Indication tag will boost its popularity. Odisha has already secured GI tags for several products like Rasgola, Kandhamal Haladi, Sambalpuri Bandha Saree, and Gajapati’s Kai Chutney.

Also Read: Good News For Mango Lovers In Mumbai! Get GI-Tagged Ratnagiri Alphonso Mangoes Delivered At Home

Have you ever tried Chhena Poda from Odisha?

Cover Image Courtesy: @osky201506/ X and @Indemb_Muscat/X