Punekars Dive into the Festive Spirit as Ramzan Enters Its Last Phase
Punekars are experiencing the vibrant flavors and aromas of Ramzan as the holy month approaches its culmination. With just a couple of weeks remaining until Eid, the streets of Pune are bustling with activity, particularly in Muslim enclaves like Mominpura, Camp, and Kausarbaug. As the sun sets, vendors set up their stalls, offering a plethora of delectable treats that tantalize the taste buds and bring communities together in celebration.
In areas like Camp, the evening scene is a feast for the senses. Streets such as Camp Court, Shivaji Market, Sachapir Street, Babajan Dargah, and Azam Campus transform into culinary hubs, adorned with a variety of snacks and delicacies. Meanwhile, Kausarbaug emerges as a prominent destination for Ramadan gastronomy, drawing food enthusiasts from all over the city.
Ramzan, which commenced on March 11, is a time of spiritual reflection and communal harmony for Muslims worldwide. Fasting from dawn till dusk, followed by the breaking of the fast (Iftar), is a cherished tradition during this holy month. For many, the call to evening prayers signals the beginning of a culinary adventure, with vendors offering an array of mouthwatering dishes such as chicken tikka, kadi gosh, chicken cutlet, and mutton seekh.
Sunita Pokharna, a resident of Viman Nagar, expresses her delight at the special treats available during Ramzan, highlighting favorites like dollar kebab and dum chicken biryani. She echoes the sentiments of countless food enthusiasts eagerly awaiting this month-long culinary extravaganza.
One must-visit spot in Camp is ‘Sakhi Falooda,’ where patrons can indulge in a variety of falooda delights, including rabdi falooda, ice cream falooda, and kulfi. Meanwhile, Iftar Street in Kausarbaug offers a sensory journey through the rich flavors of Ramadan. From Nawabi Ramzan to Shalimar Banquet, the street is lined with stalls serving up an array of delicacies, from shahi patthar gosh to Hyderabadi dum chicken.
Sahil Shaikh, the brain behind Nawabi Ramzan, emphasizes the inclusive spirit of Ramadan, where people of all backgrounds come together to enjoy the festivities. His stall has become a haven for non-vegetarian enthusiasts, offering innovative dishes that have garnered widespread acclaim.
Media professional Shailendra Singh attests to the culinary delights at Nawabi Ramzan, recommending specialties like shahi khubani ka meetha and haleem. The enthusiasm of patrons underscores the significance of Ramzan as a time for community bonding and gastronomic exploration.
In addition to culinary delights, Kausarbaug’s Iftar Street offers a diverse range of products, from traditional attire to mehndi cones and Arabian/Turkish/Afghan dishes like kunafa. As Ramzan approaches its culmination, Punekars continue to savor every moment of this festive season, embracing the rich cultural tapestry that defines their city.
