“Konda Kavum” is a tale that originates in Sri Lanka. Popular sweet snack Konda Kavum is customarily prepared in Sri Lanka during the celebrations of the Sinhala and Tamil New Years.
According to legend, a destitute woman who resided in a village created Konda Kavum. One day, a well-off family in the community made the decision to host a lavish feast to ring in the New Year. Even though the poor lady wasn’t invited to the feast, she still wanted to participate in some way.
She opted to create a sweet snack out of the materials she had at home, which included rice flour, coconut, and jaggery. The snack was formed into tiny, cone-shaped spheres, which she then fried in oil. The outcome was Konda Kavum, a delectable confection that quickly gained popularity as a refreshment throughout Sri Lanka.
In Sri Lanka, the tale of Konda Kavum is frequently cited to emphasise the value of variety and inclusivity. It demonstrates that regardless of social standing or upbringing, everyone can offer something worthwhile. The snack itself is a representation of Sri Lanka’s rich culinary customs, which draw on a wide range of ingredients and cultural influences.