200-year-old bakery shop “Bat Kandur” becomes a culinary icon in Srinagar’s Aali Kadal
Srinagar: In the heart of Batiyar Aali Kadal, a neighborhood packed with historical significance, stands a time-honored testament to tradition and culture.
The much-admired bakery shop, “Bat Kandur,” not only satisfies taste buds with its delectable offerings but also acts as a living testament to the region’s rich heritage.
Batiyar Aali Kadal, a locality bears a name tied to the history of Kashmiri Pandits. As per an elderly local, Ghulam Ahmed, the area housed around 600 Pandit families and a mere 29 Muslim families. Against this backdrop, the renowned bakery shop “Bat Kandur” was birthed by the very hands of the Pandits.
Standing as a bridge between eras, the shop’s interiors, and exteriors have remained unaltered for over two centuries. Crowned by an age-old house, the structure has become a living relic that silently narrates the tales of yesteryears. In a modern world racing toward change, “Bat Kandur” holds its ground as a symbol of bygone days, a guardian of traditions, and a repository of cultural heritage.
Within a neighborhood undergoing modernization, the architectural legacy of the Pandit families still thrives. “Multiple bakers took charge here over time but despite that, the shop has retained its essence,” says Tahir Iqbal, another local of the area. “This steadfastness not only preserves an era’s memories but also serves as a living testament to an unbroken chain of heritage that continues to flourish,” he further adds.
Another resident, Khalida Bhat, who has witnessed the neighborhood’s evolution, shared, “The bakery’s legacy speaks of unity amidst diversity when Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims coexisted harmoniously. Its enduring state reflects our collective commitment to preserving history.”
As the years have passed, “Bat Kandur” has evolved into more than a bakery. It stands as a culinary delight and a repository of resilience, embodying the nostalgia of a bygone era and reflecting the intricate cultural diversity of Kashmir. The aroma of freshly baked bread, the echoes of creaking wood, and the stories embedded within its walls have made it a magnetic attraction for both local patrons and visitors from far-flung regions.
“Bat Kandur” has garnered fame beyond the neighborhood’s boundaries. People from distant areas seek out this humble bakery, drawn by its renowned offerings. Indian and foreign tourists alike find themselves drawn to this slice of history. For many, a visit to Srinagar isn’t complete without stopping by “Bat Kandur” to savor its timeless creations and contribute to the preservation of cultural authenticity.
In an era of swift transformations, “Bat Kandur” remains a steadfast beacon, illuminating the value of tradition and the enduring spirit of safeguarding heritage. Amidst the bustling present, this bakery shop continues to weave the past into the fabric of the present, inviting all to savor the taste of history while embracing the future.
