An authentic Maharashtrian Thali is a must have when you visit Pune and there are several options for you to indulge and the highly recommended one was Maratha Samrat. We visited the outlet in Camp for lunch and I settled for a vegetarian thali, which came with - Wangi Batata Rassa - A spicy brinjal and potato curry - Sukki Bhaaji - Dry vegetable preparation - Bhakri - A flat round millet flatbread - Dal Palak - Lentil and spinach gravy - Phodniche Varan - A comforting lentil curry - Indrayani Rice - A very unique sticky rice with an interesting flavour and texture - Dahi - Curd - Kanda & Limbu - Onions and lemon - Shrikhand - A sweet sour creamy yogurt dessert Based on ayurvedic principles, the thali was a true representation of Maharashtra as there were elements from the various regions combined to give you a delicious sample of the region, in a sweet, sour, savoury, spicy and bitter platter beautifully represented. I know that Maharashtrian cuisine is known for its spicy dishes, but this Thali at its spiciest best, from the mildly subdued versions that I have experienced outside Maharashtra. I think the Sankeshwari chili from Maharashtra is in use here, which is touted as the one of the spiciest red Indian chili. I loved this wonderful spicy meal, where the bhakri brought in a balance to the spicy curries that went well with the unique sticky Indrayani rice. This is the first time I am introduced to this type of Indian rice, and loved how the texture reminded me of a millet ball, and is also extremely healthy because of its low glycemic index. I was extremely content and satisfied indulging in this meal that was fulfilling to the soul and I keep wondering at the diversity India has in its cuisine, and not just people. Highly recommend Maratha Samrat for you to experience a slice of Maharashtra in a thali.