In the grand culinary theatre of my beloved nation, each dish takes centre stage, and among them, my heart is leaning towards the Orange Barfee. It’s not just a preference; it’s a declaration of love, a gastronomic allegiance that resonates with a considerable segment of society.
As I revel in the sweet symphony of flavours that Orange Barfee provides, I am visibly aware that others find their culinary soulmates in Plum Cake, Pista Baklava, Moong Ka Halwa, and an array of other delectable treats.
Yet, within this diverse panorama of tastes, a peculiar faction emerges – the ardent advocates of Orange Barfee supremacy. With an almost devotional fervour, they take to the streets, their voices echoing the chants of devotion to the orange-hued delicacy. Caricatures, posters, and social media rants flood the virtual and physical spaces, attempting to establish Orange Barfee as the undisputed ruler of the dessert realm, akin to Orry.
In their quest for dominance, they go to extraordinary lengths, transforming boxes of Baklava into vessels for the orange delight, cleverly disguising it as the triumphant return of the Barfee. Plum cakes find themselves marginalized, and relegated to the corners as the Orange Barfee enthusiasts strategically position themselves in imposing numbers, making the once-prominent dessert almost disappear.
The Moong Halwa, a delectable treat in its own right, becomes the target of unwarranted criticism. Labelled as unhealthy and inauthentic, it’s treated as an outcast in the dessert world, only worthy of attention when it wants to set up a new store, a sad metaphor for the biases that can creep into our appreciation of diverse flavours.
This dessert drama, reminiscent of societal debates and conflicts, underscores a poignant truth – the unhealthiness of pushing a singular narrative and suppressing the richness of diversity. Just as a plate adorned with a variety of sweets is a more tempting and satisfying sight, so is a society that embraces its myriad flavours.
In the end, because the Constitution gives us the Freedom of Choice, let the Orange Barfee enthusiasts revel in their love, just as the Plum Cake connoisseurs and Baklava aficionados celebrate their favourites. The true sweetness of life lies not in establishing supremacy but in appreciating the kaleidoscope of tastes that make our culinary landscape so extraordinary. It’s a reminder that, much like a well-laid dessert table, the world is more beautiful when diverse elements peacefully coexist, contributing to the rich tapestry of our collective palate.
P.S. It’s not really about the sweets.
Anyway, what do I know? I’m generally indifferent to sweets. I guess?
- Food For Thought. - January 23, 2024