by Haseeb Ashraf Shah
SRINAGAR: As the holy month of Ramzan begins, markets in Kashmir are infused with the rich aroma of dry fruits, dates, and the distinct scent of basil seeds, locally known as Babribyol. From almonds and cashews to walnuts and raisins, dry fruits remain a staple during this sacred month. This year, the selection of dates has expanded, with shopkeepers importing premium varieties from the Middle East, Iran, Algeria, and Tunisia. The demand for these nutritional essentials is at its peak as families prepare for Iftar and Sehri.
Significance
For generations, dry fruits have been integral to Ramzan in Kashmir. Almonds, cashews, walnuts, raisins, and coconuts are valued not only for their flavour but also for their nutritional benefits. They provide essential energy after a long day of fasting and are used in traditional dishes such as Feerni, a creamy dessert made with milk, semolina, and dry fruits.
“Dry fruits are a necessity in every household during Ramzan. They are healthy, flavourful, and ideal for breaking the fast,” said Zahida, a local homemaker.
Dates
Among all dry fruits, dates hold a particular significance. Breaking the fast with dates is a long-standing Islamic tradition, and their natural sweetness provides immediate energy after a day of fasting. This year, Kashmiri markets offer a wider selection, with shopkeepers bringing in dates from Saudi Arabia, Iran, and North Africa, in addition to the usual Middle Eastern varieties.
Basil Seed
Beyond dry fruits and dates, basil seeds, or Babribyol, are in high demand. These seeds are used to prepare Babri Tresh, a cooling drink that has become synonymous with Ramzan in Kashmir. The beverage is made by soaking basil seeds in milk or water, adding sugar, and garnishing with dry fruits. Packed with calcium, fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, it not only refreshes the body but also helps restore energy after fasting.
“In Kashmir, Babri Tresh and Ramzan are inseparable. It is as much a part of the holy month as dates and dry fruits,” said Zahida. Families prepare the drink in advance, ensuring it is ready in time for Iftar. As the evening call to prayer signals the breaking of the fast, men, women, and children eagerly gather for this nourishing and traditional drink.
The Surge in Sales
While shops are filled with activity, street vendors are also witnessing a rise in sales. Mohammad Yaqoob Bhat, a vendor in Lal Chowk, Srinagar, said he sells dry fruits exclusively during Ramzan. This year, he noted, demand is higher than ever. People are purchasing not only dates but also a variety of dry fruits to prepare special dishes for Iftar and Sehri.
At Yaqoob’s stall, baskets are filled with an array of dates, including Ajwa, Medjool, Kalmi, Rabi, Mazafati, Ambar, and Sukkari. Almonds, walnuts, and cashews are also in high demand. He observed that customers are increasingly looking beyond traditional Ajwa and Kalmi dates. Varieties such as Medjool, Rabi, and Mazafati, along with those imported from Algeria and Tunisia, are gaining popularity.
Adil Ahmed Reshi, a shopkeeper, remarked that dry fruit sales had been low in recent years but had increased significantly this Ramzan. He noted that customers were purchasing in larger quantities, suggesting an overall rise in demand.
The Spirit
Ramzan is not only a time of fasting but also community and shared traditions. During Iftar, families and neighbors gather, sharing dates, dry fruits, and Babri Tresh, the traditional basil seed drink. Ghulam Mohammad Shah, a local resident, described the act of offering these foods to others as deeply meaningful. “There is a unique joy in sharing dates and Babri Tresh at Iftar,” he said. “It strengthens relationships and brings people closer.”
As the call to prayer signals the end of the fast, families come together over carefully prepared meals. Plates of dates and dry fruits are passed around, and glasses of Babri Tresh are poured. In the Valley, Ramzan remains a time of warmth, generosity, and unity.
