Hyderabad:
Hyderabad is celebrating its legacy. And this Ramzan just got better, with Haleem now officially called Hyderabadi Haleem.
Haleem is an exotic and nutritious dish made of mashed goat meat, wheat, lentils, spices and almonds. It is prepared for the devout to break their fast during the holy month of Ramzan and has now been awarded the 'Geographical Indication Certificate' which means Hyderabadi Haleem joins the ranks of Tirupati
laddu, Darjeeling tea, Goan feni and Banaras silk.
And why not? Haleem-making is now a Rs 100-crore industry providing employment to nearly 15,000 people in the city.
"Haleem is sold in over 6000 stalls all across Hyderabad and the business is tremendous," said M.A.Majeed, President, Haleem Makers Association.
Seeing the rising demand for Hyderabadi Haleem, the post office and courier companies have already taken up delivery of canned Haleem to other cities and abroad.
The Controller General of Patents' award means Haleem makers outside Hyderabad cannot sell their product calling it Hyderabadi Haleem.
Even Haleem makers within the city can claim the GI tag only if they meet the stringent quality standards which involve a 12-hour-long cooking process on low fire.
Hyderabadis are glad to get the stamp. "Ramzan is the best time to eat Haleem. No matter which street you go to, Haleem will surely be available," said a local resident.
Another added, "This is one of the richest dishes that is why both Muslims and non-Muslims like it. It is good for health."