In conversation with Kashyap Sajnani, Co-founder and Managing Director of VEGO Cafe and Confectionary

What childhood memories do you have when it comes to mithais? Growing up, Diwali was a magical time filled with lights, family gatherings, and mithai. I fondly remember our home being filled with boxes of sweets and gifts from friends and relatives. But what I cherished the most was indulging in kaju katli, which is my absolute favorite. The creamy, nutty flavor of the cashews in this traditional sweet was something I looked forward to all year. My family and I would sit together after a long day of festivities, sharing stories and enjoying the endless supply of sweets. That sense of togetherness, with mithai at the heart of it, is something I still treasure to this day.

Your favorite mithai, and why? Even now, kaju katli holds a special place in my heart. It’s more than just a sweet—it’s a reminder of those precious moments spent with family. Its rich, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a timeless classic. While I love all kinds of sweets, kaju katli will always be my favorite because of the memories and joy it brings.

Can you share a recipe for a mithai for festive occasions or otherwise? One of my favorite easy-to-make mithai recipes is coconut laddoos. It’s a simple yet delicious sweet that works for any festive occasion. Ingredients: 2 cups grated coconut (fresh or desiccated); 1 cup condensed milk; 1/2 tsp cardamom powder; extra coconut for rolling

Method: Allow them to set for 30 minutes, and they’re ready to serve! Heat a pan on medium flame and dry roast the grated coconut for 2-3 minutes, until slightly aromatic. Add the condensed milk and stir well, ensuring the mixture doesn’t stick to the pan. Add the cardamom powder and mix thoroughly. Once the mixture thickens, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Roll the mixture into small laddoos and coat them with extra grated coconut.

Why do Indian sweets win over any other desserts globally? I wouldn’t say they “win” over other desserts, as I love all kinds of sweets. But Indian sweets hold their place globally because of their wide variety—there’s something for every taste and preference. Plus, the innovation in mithai today keeps the tradition alive while introducing modern flavors. Traditional techniques in preparing these sweets also add to their charm, making them stand out in the global dessert scene.

These days, customers are asking for healthy mithai options. Doing so may alter the flavor, which means it’s not authentic in taste. What’s your take on this? We offer a range of guilt-free mithai that are vegan and refined sugar-free, catering to those who prefer healthier options. We’ve worked hard to get as close as possible to the authentic taste of traditional mithai, and we’ve succeeded. It’s great to have inclusive options for people who either can’t or choose not to indulge in the traditional versions of mithai. This way, everyone gets to enjoy the sweetness of Diwali!

With deep roots in Dubai, he has always been surrounded by the city’s rich blend of culture and flavors, which sparked his passion for hospitality. “My dream of entering the hospitality industry led me to study in Switzerland, and my love for all things sweet fuels my passion to grow Vego, a family business,” he said.