What is Kaddoo in Madhya Pradesh is Kumda in West Bengal!

Kaddoo & Kumda

In Bengali, Kumda (কুমড়া) generally refers to Pumpkin or Gourd. It is often used interchangeably with Kumro (কুমড়ো). The most common types are Misti Kumra (Sweet Pumpkin/Yellow Pumpkin) and ChalKumro (Ash Gourd/White Gourd). Everyday Aloo and Kumda is cooked in the Mid-day meal in schools.

That reminds me of Kaddoo in Madhya Pradesh. कद्दू (Pumpkin) को हिंदी में मुख्य रूप से कद्दू, काशीफल, सीताफल या कुम्हड़ा कहा जाता है। यह एक लोकप्रिय और पौष्टिक सब्जी है जो अपनी चटपटी, खट्टी-मीठी सब्जी के लिए जानी जाती है, जिसे अक्सर पूरी के साथ परोसा जाता है। kaddoo in Bengali is called as Lao (লাউ).

Kaddoo and aloo is made almost every day in Schools of Madhya Pradesh. So, what is Kaddoo in Madhya Pradesh is Kumda in West Bengal!

But why are kaddoo and kumda made in mid day meal schemes in various states? Why are they so popular?

1.       They are easily grown in rural areas. They can be grown in the badi (home’s vegetable growing area).

2.       They are easily available in the rural markets,

3.       They are available at less price. For the SHGs and Mid day meal makers, it is economical.

4.       Pumpkin is a healthy, versatile vegetable that’s loaded with a variety of nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Most of the health benefits of pumpkin are focused on its fiber content and micronutrients, including beta carotene and vitamin A.

1st May 2026