Bengaluru's Timeless Bakeries: Preserving Tradition and Taste
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As the festive season approaches, many of us flock to bakeries to indulge in the sweet aromas and flavors that evoke memories of childhood. For Bengaluru residents, these bakeries are more than just a haven for sweet treats – they are a testament to the city's rich culinary heritage. For Shoba Narayan, the author of this piece, walking through the bazaars to sample the freshest turmeric plants and sugarcane stalks before Yugadi is a cherished tradition. Similarly, her Christmas festivities involve visiting bakeries to catch the whiff of plum cakes and kuswar platters. She prefers bakeries to malls, which, despite their festive decorations and piped carols, lack the authentic smell of freshly baked goods. Many Bengaluru families have a long-standing association with these bakeries, which have been their go-to destinations for festive baking. Vivek Chandy, a resident of the city, recalls how his mother and grandmother would take their plum cakes to All Saints Bakery before Christmas. The bakery would bake around 50 cakes a day, with at least five of them belonging to ladies who didn't have ovens at home but wanted to mix the dough and soak the dry fruits in rum themselves. All Saints and Fatima Bakery, both located in Richmond Town, have been in operation for decades and continue to attract families seeking their mince pies, cakes, and cookies. Meanwhile, Thoms and Alberts, two iconic bakeries in the Cantonment area, have been serving the community since 1902 and 1902 respectively. Alberts, in particular, is known for its khoya naan, a flaky and creamy delight that melts in the mouth. The city's bakeries have a rich history that dates back to the British era. The British, who lived in the Cantonment, were dissatisfied with the quality of bread in India and decided to teach the locals the art of baking. This knowledge transfer has been passed down through generations, resulting in the bakeries that we know and love today. As the city's residents continue to cherish these bakeries, it's essential to recognize their significance in preserving Bengaluru's culinary heritage. From the iconic khoya naan to the sweet and flaky choubey ki naan, these bakeries offer a taste of tradition and a glimpse into the city's rich history. As Ramachandra Guha, a renowned writer, once said, 'life without Parade's [a popular bakery] is impossible to contemplate.'
