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Much like during the Haryana elections, this time too, the iconic sweet has found itself in the spotlight, notably at the BJP headquarters in Delhi.
Jalebi has become synonymous with victory celebrations during election results.
As the election results from Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and various other state by-elections come in, a familiar topic is making the rounds once again – Jalebi. BJP leaders and Uttar Pradesh ministers had, in October, celebrated the party’s victory during the Haryana assembly elections with the sweet, while also taking a jab at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, suggesting that he must be finding “jalebis” bitter that day.
“Today, Rahul Gandhi and Congress leaders must be finding even jalebi bitter because the public has sweetened the mouth of BJP by giving the mandate of victory!” Gupta posted in Hindi on X (previously Twitter). BJP leader and Prayagraj (West) MLA Sidharth Nath Singh also quipped, “After seeing the Haryana election results, I will send Prayagraj’s jalebi to Rahul Gandhi.”
During the lead-up to the Haryana polls, Gandhi had addressed an election rally in Gohana on October 3, where he showcased a box of the famous Matu Ram ‘halwai jalebis‘ and emphasised that they should be sold across the country. He also proposed exporting the jalebi, claiming it would generate more jobs, while criticising the Centre and the BJP for their business policies.
Much like during the Haryana elections, this time too, the iconic sweet has found itself in the spotlight, notably at the BJP headquarters in Delhi, where it was served in celebration. The sweet treat is once again a topic of conversation, but how much do we really know about its origins? Let’s take a deep dive into the fascinating history of Jalebi, and the countries that claim it as their national dessert.
Jalebi has become synonymous with victory celebrations during election results. Whether it’s being prepared in kitchens or handed out in the streets, this crispy, syrupy delight is a popular choice to mark moments of triumph. But while Jalebi is a beloved sweet in India, it may surprise many to learn that it did not originate here.
Where Did Jalebi Come From?
The origins of Jalebi can be traced to Iran, where it was originally known as Julabiya or Julubiya. Historical records suggest that it was brought to India by Turkish invaders around 500 years ago. Over time, it was embraced by our country’s cuisine, adapted to local tastes, and gradually became one of the most popular sweets across the country.
Interestingly, the name Jalebi itself has Arabic roots. It is derived from the Arabic word “zalabia“, which refers to the deep-fried, sugar-soaked treat. The word and the dessert are both mentioned in the Kitab-al-Tabiq, a medieval Arabic text. This linguistic link further underscores the international journey of this beloved sweet.
Which Country Considers Jalebi Its National Sweet?
While Jalebi holds a special place in our cuisine, it is also recognised as the national sweet of Bangladesh. After gaining independence in 1971, Bangladesh officially declared Jalebi as its national dessert, alongside its popularity in India, where it is adored from the northern plains to the southern tip. In fact, in eastern parts of our country, Jalebi is also known by the name Jilabi.
Jalebi has been a part of culinary traditions since the 15th century and continues to be a key feature in festivals, celebrations, and even day-to-day life. From being served at weddings to being an offering at religious festivals, Jalebi is a sweet symbol of joy and festivity.
To sum up, Jalebi may be an integral part of Indian culture, but its origins lie in the Middle East, specifically Iran. Through centuries of cultural exchange, the sweet evolved, gaining popularity across India and later Bangladesh, where it was honoured as the national sweet.
(With inputs from PTI)
