Who are India’s oldest sweetmakers? A legacy of 229 years of tradition and rich halwai heritage

India is known for its rich culinary heritage, and sweets are an integral part of the culture. Sweets are more than just desserts—they are symbols of celebration, warmth, and tradition. With a packaged sweets market valued at over Rs. 6,200 crores, the demand for traditional sweets spikes during festive occasions like the Diwali, Dhanteras, New Year. However, beyond the gleaming counters of modern confectioners lies a legacy upheld by some of India’s oldest sweetmakers. These halwai shops, steeped in history and tradition, have been perfecting their craft for generations, offering a taste of India’s rich past in every bite. Whether it’s Agra’s iconic Bhagat Halwai or Kolkata’s KC Das, credited with revolutionizing Rasgulla packaging, each has a unique story to tell. Here’s a look at some legendary halwai shops that have been delighting taste buds for generations.

1. Bhagat Halwai (Agra, 1795)

Founded in 1795 by Lekh Raj Bhagat, Bhagat Halwai in Agra is one of the oldest sweet shops in India. Known for its high-quality confections, their sweets are available in packs priced between Rs. 352 and Rs. 652, offering a delightful mix of tradition and flavor.

2. Punjabi Ghasitaram Halwai (Mumbai, 1916)

Established in Mumbai in 1916, Punjabi Ghasitaram Halwai is renowned for its Besan Laddoos, Peda, and Kaju Katli. Their sweets combine authenticity with modern packaging, making them a favorite for special occasions.

3. K.C. Das Halwai (Kolkata, 1866)

Founded in 1866 in Kolkata, K.C. Das Halwai revolutionized the sweet industry by introducing the first canned Rasgulla in 1930. Their innovation and commitment to quality have made them a household name.

4. Parsi Dairy Farm (Mumbai, 1916)

Established in Mumbai in 1916, Parsi Dairy Farm offers over 80 varieties of sweets. Their menu includes classic favorites made with premium ingredients, continuing to uphold Parsi culinary traditions.

5. Basha Halwawala (Chennai, 1938)

Located in Chennai, Basha Halwawala has been serving sweets for 85 years. Their specialty is the honey-infused “Dum Ka Roast” halwa, priced at Rs. 480 per kilogram. This delicacy remains highly sought after.

6. Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners (Delhi, 1947)

Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners, located in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk, was established in 1947. Originally based in Lahore’s Anarkali Market, they brought their legacy to India post-partition.

7. Kanwarji Mithai Wale (Delhi, 1850)

Situated in Chandni Chowk’s famous Paranthe Wali Gali, Kanwarji Mithai Wale has been in business since 1850. Their Pista Lauj is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.

8. Punjabi Chandu Halwai (Mumbai, 1896)

Chandulal Behl started Punjabi Chandu Halwai in Mumbai in 1896 after moving from Karachi. Their Sindhi Jalebi is a crowd favorite, offering a unique taste of Sindhi heritage.

9. Anand Sweets (Bengaluru, 1988)

Established by Anand Dayal Dadu in 1988, Anand Sweets in Bengaluru has gained fame for its Balushahi and Motichoor Laddoos. Despite being relatively new, they have carved a niche in the market with their premium offerings.

A Sweet Legacy

These iconic sweetmakers are not just businesses; they represent a heritage of taste and tradition passed down through generations. From Agra to Bengaluru, these halwais continue to preserve India’s rich legacy of sweets, making every celebration memorable with their creations.