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.

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.