Palestinian 'Date' delight for many Bengalureans

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: During the month of Ramadan, the 'Medjool King', imported from war-torn Palestine, emerges as the most sought-after date variety here in Bengaluru.

Mohammed Idress Choudhury, proprietor of 'Delicious', a dry fruit shop located in the grand old Russell Market, attests to its popularity.

This particular variety, which Idress claims boasts natural glucose content, is reputed for its cardiovascular benefits and its ability to alleviate body pain.

"Chief Minister Siddaramiah is among the many celebrity clientele who favor this variety," Idrees mentioned.

While the Medjool King variety typically fetches Rs. 2400 per kilogram, Choudhury offers them at a discounted rate of Rs. 1600 per kg.

Addressing inquiries about the sale of dates originating from Israel, Choudhury remarked, "Ever since the pandemic waned, all traders unanimously decided to refrain from importing dry fruit products from Israel. It felt like we were inadvertently funding the loss of innocent lives."

Another new addition to the shop, finding its way into many customers' shopping bags, is the 'Anjur' fig, imported from Afghanistan. Choudhury asserts, "Consuming it for seven days with milk or water can help alleviate body pain."

The shop boasts a diverse selection of over 47 date varieties, sourced from six countries, predominantly from the Middle East.

Prominent among these are Ajwa, Amber, Kalmi, Sagai, and Zahidi from Saudi Arabia, as well as Sufri from Baghdad, Iraq. According to Choudhury, the total quantity of dates imported amounts to around 200 tons.