Mysore Pak, a traditional Indian sweet originating from the royal kitchen of Mysore kings, has made its mark on the international stage by securing a spot among the world’s top 50 street-food sweets. The delectable treat, known for its rich culinary heritage, was ranked 14th on Taste Atlas’ list, with a rating of 4.4.
Karnataka, the state where Mysore Pak hails from, has always been known for its diverse range of sweets and desserts. However, Mysore Pak stands out among them, captivating taste buds not only in India but also around the world. This recent international recognition has brought great pride to Karnataka.
In addition to Mysore Pak, two other Indian desserts also made it onto the prestigious list. Falooda and Kulfi Falooda secured spots among the top 50 sweets, further showcasing the diverse and rich culinary traditions of India.
Mysore Pak came into existence around 90 years ago during the reign of the Mysore kings. Legend has it that one day, the royal chef Madappa noticed the absence of a sweet dish on the King’s dinner plate. This prompted him to combine sugar, ghee, and peanut flour, creating the delectable Mysore Pak. The dish received high praise from the Maharaja, leading to its widespread popularity.
Shivananda, the grandson of Tatsar Madappa, the inventor of Mysore Pak, expressed his pride in this culinary achievement. He explained that the sweet was named after Mysore, the place where it was first prepared, and Pak, which means sweet. Mysore Pak has since become a beloved delicacy, carrying on the tradition and sweetness established by its creator.
The news of Mysore Pak’s ranking brought joy to Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, DK Shivakumar, who took to Twitter to share his delight. He expressed his gratitude towards the countless chefs whose hard work and skills have made Mysore Pak available in households worldwide. Shivakumar fondly recalled his childhood memories of sharing this sweet treat with family and friends.
This recognition is not the first for Mysore Pak. In 2019, its place of origin, Tamil Nadu, received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the popular dessert. The GI tag acknowledges the specific place of origin and unique qualities of a product. Interestingly, this sparked a controversy between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, with the latter expressing dissatisfaction over the decision. However, it was later revealed to be false news.
Mysore Pak’s international recognition adds to the fame of various Mysore-based products, such as Mysore betel nut, Mysore silk, and Mysore jasmine. These products have gained worldwide acclaim and contribute to the city’s reputation as a favorite tourist destination. Mysore, also known as the city of palaces, attracts thousands of visitors who come to admire its beauty and indulge in its culinary delights.
The inclusion of Mysore Pak, Falooda, and Kulfi Falooda on Taste Atlas’ list is a testament to the global appeal of Indian street-food sweets. These desserts encapsulate the rich and diverse flavors of India’s culinary heritage, delighting both locals and international food enthusiasts. Karnataka takes great pride in its contribution to this culinary landscape and looks forward to showcasing more traditional delights to the world.
