History Of Kansat Sweet From Bengal: Indira Gandhi’s Favourite

The Kansat Sweet carries a rich legacy anchored in Bengal's gastronomic past. Originally from a little East Bengali village (now Bangladesh), this delicacy has captured the hearts of many, including worldwide venues. It is a timeless delicacy with strong historical origins following its authentic taste and appeal. The treat has a creamy texture and distinctive taste from its outstanding use of kheer or condensed milk solids. Modern influences have not changed the production of this sweet, so it maintains its natural taste.

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One of the most prominent personalities attached to Kansat Sweet is India’s former Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi. During one of her visits to Malda, Congress leader Ghani Khan Chowdhury introduced her to this sweet, and she instantly fell in love with its flavour. Every time Khan Chowdhury visited Delhi, it became a ritual to bring Kansat for her. Kansat became a famous treat all throughout the nation. But what actually distinguishes this sweet? It is the workmanship behind it, the age-old recipe handed down through the years, and the commitment to retain its natural essence.

History And Origin Of Kansat Sweet

Origin Of Kansat In East Bengal

The Kansat Sweet traces its roots to Kansat, a prosperous village in the Shibganj sub-district of East Bengal, now Bangladesh. The village was named after Kangshohatta, a royal settlement. Kansat gained fame when Mahendra Kumar Saha, the first maker of this sweet, crafted it in his shop during the British era. Over time, it became a local favourite in East Bengal.

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Legacy In Malda

After the Partition in 1947, many Hindu sweet-makers, including Mahendra Kumar Saha, migrated to Bengal for survival. Saha established a sweet shop in Maqdampur, Malda. This shop, now famously known as ‘Kansat Sweets,’ became a symbol of the village’s legacy. His son, Vijay Kumar Saha, further refined the recipe, and today, it remains a must-visit spot for sweet lovers, just 15 minutes away from Malda station.

Traditional Preparation Method

Kansat Sweet is made from kheer, which involves cooking milk for a thick, condensed consistency. This gives the sweet a creamy texture. The quality of the milk is vital, as it must come from cows grazing in specific regions to produce the best kheer. This attention to detail makes Kansat Sweet stand out, as the makers continue to travel to local markets to procure the finest ingredients.

The Untouched Tradition

Even though the shop and preparation method haven’t changed much over the years, modernization hasn’t impacted the taste. The recipe remains rooted in tradition. The makers still rely on local ingredients, and the sweet attracts global visitors, expatriates, and foreign delegates who yearn for its taste.

The Connection To Indira Gandhi

Indira Gandhi’s fondness for Kansat Sweet added another layer of significance to this delicacy. After her introduction to the sweet by Ghani Khan Chowdhury, it became a personal favourite of hers. The sweet was always part of Chowdhury’s offerings whenever he visited Delhi. This association with such an influential figure contributed to Kansat’s popularity on a national and international level.

International Fame Of Kansat

Over time, Kansat Sweet has gained international recognition. Tourists and expatriates make a point to stop by and grab a taste of this delicacy whenever they visit Malda. Its fame has crossed the borders of India and made its mark globally. The unique taste and creamy texture have given Kansat a status few other regional sweets can boast.

Present-Day Tradition

Despite its fame and the modern times, Kansat Sweet remains loyal to its origins. The shop still functions the way it did decades ago. Its unassuming exterior and the swift sale of the sweet within half an hour of preparation are testaments to its enduring appeal. The Saha brothers, who now manage the shop, continue to prioritise quality over everything, ensuring that each piece retains its original taste and texture.

Kansat Sweet holds a special place in Bengal's rich culinary tradition. Its journey from a humble sweet shop in East Bengal to becoming an international delicacy is remarkable. Tied with a legacy of authenticity and quality, Kansat Sweet remains a must-try for anyone looking to experience the best of Bengal’s sweet offerings.