Anarkali Sweet: A Hyderabadi Delicacy with a Mughal Twist

Have you ever heard of Anarkali sweet? If not, you are missing out on one of the most delicious and unique desserts in India. Anarkali sweet is a traditional dish from Hyderabad, the city of pearls and biryanis. It is made with layers of thin crepes stuffed with khoya (thickened milk), nuts, raisins, cardamom and saffron. The crepes are then folded into triangles and deep-fried until golden and crisp. The final touch is a generous drizzle of sugar syrup flavored with rose water and lemon juice.
Anarkali sweet is named after the legendary dancer and courtesan who was the lover of Prince Salim, the son of Emperor Akbar. According to legend, she was buried alive by Akbar for her affair with Salim. Her name means “pomegranate blossom” in Persian, and some say that the dish resembles her colorful and fragrant attire.
Anarkali sweet is a rare delicacy that is not easily found in restaurants or shops. It requires skill and patience to prepare, and it is usually made only on special occasions such as weddings or festivals. But if you are lucky enough to taste it, you will never forget its rich and decadent flavor and texture. It is truly a royal treat that deserves to be celebrated.

Origin of Anarkali

Anarkali sweet is named after the legendary dancer and courtesan who was the lover of Prince Salim, the son of Emperor Akbar. Her name means “pomegranate blossom” in Persian, and some say that the dish resembles her colorful and fragrant attire.
The origin of Anarkali sweet is shrouded in mystery and controversy. Some sources claim that it was invented by Anarkali herself as a gift for Salim, while others say that it was created by Salim’s cook to commemorate her after her death. Some even doubt the existence of Anarkali and consider her a fictional character.

History of Anarkali

The earliest mention of Anarkali sweet is found in the journal of English tourist and trader William Finch, who visited the Mughal Empire in 1608. He wrote about a “faire monument” built by Salim for his mother Don Sha, one of Akbar’s wives, who was also known as Immaeque Kelle or Pomegranate Kernell. Finch said that she was buried alive by Akbar for having an affair with Salim, and that Salim ordered a sumptuous tomb to be built for her in the midst of a four-square garden. He also described the dome of the tomb to be wrought in works of gold.
However, some historians dispute this account and argue that Don Sha was not Anarkali but another wife of Akbar named Daniyal Begum. They also point out that the tomb mentioned by Finch is actually the Tomb of Sahib Jamal, another wife of Salim who died in 1599. The confusion may have arisen due to the similarity of names and the fact that both tombs are located in Lahore.
Another possible Tomb of Anarkali is located in the Pakistani city of Lahore. It is a white marble cenotaph with an inscription that reads: “Could I behold the face of my beloved once more, I would thank God until the day of resurrection.” However, there is no conclusive evidence to prove that this tomb belongs to Anarkali or that she was ever buried there.

Cultural Significance of Anarkali

Anarkali sweet is more than just a dessert; it is a symbol of love, passion and tragedy. It has inspired many artists, writers and filmmakers to create works based on the story of Anarkali and Salim. The most famous example is the 1960 Bollywood film Mughal-e-Azam, in which Anarkali is portrayed by Madhubala. The film is considered a masterpiece of Indian cinema and features iconic scenes such as the song “Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya” (Why Fear If You Have Loved) sung by Anarkali inside a mirror palace.
Anarkali sweet is also a part of the Hyderabadi cuisine, which reflects the influence of Mughal, Persian and Telugu cultures. It is usually made on special occasions such as weddings or festivals, as it requires skill and patience to prepare. It is served hot or cold, depending on the preference of the eater.

Where Anarkali Is Famous?

Anarkali sweet is mainly famous in Hyderabad, where it originated and where it is still prepared with traditional methods and ingredients. However, it has also spread to other parts of India, especially in places where there is a significant Hyderabadi diaspora or influence. For instance, you can find Anarkali sweet in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bangalore among other cities.
Anarkali sweet is also popular in Pakistan, especially in Lahore where it shares its name with the legendary lover. In fact, some people believe that Anarkali sweet was first introduced in Lahore by Salim himself after he became Emperor Jahangir. You can also find Anarkali sweet in other countries where there are Hyderabadi or Pakistani immigrants, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.

Facts and Trivia

• Anarkali means “pomegranate blossom” in Persian, but it can also mean “delicate bud” or “beautiful woman”.
• The sweet is also known as Imarti or Jalebi Paratha in some regions.
• The sweet can be stored for up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The sweet can be paired with ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• The sweet can be made vegan by replacing khoya with coconut milk powder or almond milk powder.

Did you know?

Anarkali sweet is not only delicious but also nutritious. This dessert is made with pomegranate, which is a superfruit that has many health benefits. Here are some of them:

• Pomegranate is rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and helps fight infections
  Pomegranate has antioxidant properties, which protect us from free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to cells
• Pomegranate may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood flow and preventing plaque formation in the arteries
• Pomegranate may improve memory and cognitive function by enhancing brain activity and preventing neurodegeneration
• Pomegranate may help with weight loss by increasing metabolism and suppressing appetite
• Pomegranate may be beneficial for diabetics by lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity.
  So, the next time you crave for a sweet treat, try Anarkali sweet and enjoy its taste and health benefits.