Godrej microwave ovens gain traction in Nepali urban kitchens

KATHMANDU: Godrej microwave ovens are gaining traction in Nepali urban kitchens as households seek ways to cut LPG consumption amid fluctuations in the international energy market.

Consumers and retailers say the appliance’s fast cooking capabilities make it a practical alternative for preparing breakfast, snacks, baked goods and a range of everyday dishes, helping families reduce reliance on gas for routine meal preparation.

Users report that many daily dishes once cooked on gas stoves are now being prepared in microwaves, including lentils, rice, vegetables and a variety of new recipes. Some models also offer air fry and baking functions, broadening their use beyond simple reheating.

For Smita Adhikari, a bank employee in Lalitpur, the microwave has become indispensable. “I have to make breakfast quickly before going to office, and there isn't much time after returning home in the evening,” she said. “With a microwave oven, food, baked dishes, snacks, or other items can be cooked quickly. This saves time and has also greatly reduced gas usage.”

Godrej’s microwave range in Nepal includes Solo, Grill and Convection options in 20, 23 and 28‑litre capacities. Features such as the Instacook Recipe Menu, Multi‑Distribution Heating System, Auto Cooking Menu, Dual Grill Technology and Defrost Function are highlighted by the company as making cooking easier. Select models also include Healthy Air Fry technology, which aims to prepare food with less oil.

The appliances are distributed in Nepal by CG Electronics, part of the Chaudhary Group, which also markets other Godrej products such as refrigerators, air coolers, washing machines and chest freezers. CG Electronics is one of the country’s leading home appliance distributors, the company said.

Industry observers say the shift towards microwaves reflects broader changes in urban cooking habits driven by time pressures and rising energy costs. As households look for efficient, multi‑functional kitchen solutions, microwave ovens appear to be carving out a growing role in modern Nepali kitchens.