Although Varanasi is famous all over the world for many reasons. Kashi is known for its streets, Banarasi sarees, Ganga Ghat and variety of sweets. Malaiyo has a special place in these sweets. Malaiyo is the only sweet that is made in Banaras only. That too it is made only in the winter season. Foreigners are also crazy about this sweet made from drops of gooseberry. Being prepared from milk and dew drops, it is also very beneficial for health. It also increases eyesight.
Beneficial things like saffron, pistachios, almonds, cardamom are also added to Malaiyo. Experts of Ayurveda also believe that apart from being nutritious, Malaiyo also enhances physical beauty. It maintains the glow of the face.
It is said that it started from the Chaukhamba locality situated on the banks of the Ganges, called Pakka Mahal of Banaras. Now the shops of Malays have been decorated till Banaras Chowk, Maidagin, Godaulia, Dashashwamedh, Church Square. This place will also be seen sold in the streets situated on the banks of the Ganges.
How is this cream made?
The beginning of making this sweet made from milk started hundreds of years ago from Banaras itself. First the raw milk is boiled and kept under the open sky in dew i.e. fog. Then sugar, saffron, pistachios, cardamom and nuts are added to the froth that comes out of churning the milk.
Even though state-of-the-art machines have come in the kitchen, the traditional seal-pounder is still used to prepare Banarasi Malaiyo. Being prepared from milk and dew drops, Malaiyo is also considered very beneficial for health and eyesight.
The rare taste of Malaiyo will not be found anywhere in the world except Banaras. Saffron milk froth with mild sweetness and enchanting aroma enlivens mornings in Banaras. As soon as it enters the mouth, its taste dissolves. Banarasi Malaiyo Bhari is made in the three months of winter. The more dew falls, the better its quality.
Very beneficial from Ayurvedic point of view
Cream prepared in dew drops is very beneficial from Ayurvedic point of view. Dew drops contain natural minerals which are beneficial for the skin. Saffron, almonds used in creams are tonic. It increases physical strength. Saffron bestows beauty.
Apart from this, this sweet is also considered a boon for eyesight. The creams of Banaras give a feeling of humming sunshine in the chilling cold. It dissolves as soon as it goes into the mouth and the effect is such that it keeps the sweetness on the tongue for a long time.
Increasing pride in marriage
Now Malaiyo is also being offered in marriages. Now people are preparing it with machine also. 300 to 400 rupees per kg Malaiyo is available. At the same time, it is available in small, medium and large size kulhads from Rs.15 to Rs.30.