firstly, slice ash gourd to cubes removing the skin and seed flesh completely.
now poke the ash gourd pieces from all sides. keep aside.
in a large bowl take 4 cup water and dissolve ½ tsp limestone / chuna.
now add in chopped ash gourd and stir well.
soak for 24 hours mixing in between every 3 hours.
rinse and wash ash gourd pieces by rubbing each and every cube.
now in a saucepan heat 4 cup water and get to a boil.
add in washed ash gourd pieces and cook stirring occasionally.
boil for 12 -15 minutes .
further, in a large kadai take 1½ cup sugar, 3 pods cardamom, few saffrons and pinch saffron food colour.
also, add ¼ cup water and dissolve sugar stirring well.
once the sugar dissolves, add in cooked ash gourd.
stir well, and boil for 10 minutes.
now place the petha in a plate or a wire mesh to cool completely for at least 12 hours.
finally, serve agra petha or store in an airtight container and enjoy.