The 14 greens of Choddo Shaak

LFC Kitchens | October 2025

What goes into cooking up the perfect 14-ingredient Choti Diwali tradition?

Ayandrali: On Choti Diwali, or Bhoot Chaturdashi, most Bengalis make this ‘Choddo Shaak’ which translates to 14 leafy greens cooked together.

Nidhi:Learning new things! Could you please share more details?

Ayandrali: On the day before Kali Puja, called Bhoot Chaturdashi, Bengali families follow a special tradition of cooking Choddo Shaak. This is a simple vegetarian and vegan dish made without onion or garlic, of 14 different kinds of leafy greens. It is usually served for lunch. The name Choddo Shaak means “14 greens,” and each type of leaf is believed to represent different parts of life and nature. Also just because we are at the cusp of a change in season, these greens help increase immunity too.

Prutha: What leaves are used in this?!

Samita: I have made this as well. All I used were leaves which I collected from the roadside, and which were uncultivated.

Ayandrali: These can include: Palong Shaak (Spinach), which is mild and velvety. Pui Shaak (Malabar Spinach), nutty with a hint of sweetness. Methi Shaak (Fenugreek), which is bitter and aromatic. Notey Shaak (Amaranth), earthy and vibrant. Kochu Shaak (Taro leaves), soft and slightly starchy. Lai Shaak (Mustard greens), pungent and warming. Thankuni Shaak (Centella), which is herbal, grounding. Brahmi Shaak (Bacopa), mild, with medicinal qualities. Kalmi Shaak (Water spinach), lightly crunchy. Neem Shaak (Neem leaves), bitter and detoxifying. Hingche Shaak (Leucas), earthy and unique. Bhat Shaak (Clerodendrum), slightly astringent. Sushni Shaak (Marsilea) that is soft and slightly tangy, and Chalkumro Shaak (Ash gourd leaves), which are mild with a subtle aroma.