Prem Di Hatti: A Century of Sweet Success on Srinagar-Jammu National Highway

Srinagar, Feb 05: Nestled along the Kashmir-Jammu National Highway, Prem Sweets stands as a beacon of culinary tradition, preparing to commemorate a remarkable 100-year journey that began in 1925 when Prem Lok Nath Khajuria first established the shop in the picturesque hill town of Kud.

From its humble origins, Prem Di Hatti has transformed into a gastronomic landmark, now operating three strategic outlets along the highway and producing an impressive two tons of sweets daily. The shop's signature offerings—Patisa, Kalakand Barfi, and Mango Jelly—have become synonymous with quality and authenticity in the region.

The highway's construction posed initial challenges for local businesses, forcing many to relocate. Prem Sweets not only survived but thrived, strategically positioning itself to remain accessible to travellers. This resilience is rooted in an unwavering commitment to traditional recipes and premium ingredients, a philosophy passed down through generations.

Tourists and locals alike have woven Prem Sweets into their travel narratives. Suman Rajput, a Delhi resident, describes stopping at the shop as a cherished family ritual. "Their Patisa is the best I've ever had," she remarks, emphasising the tradition of taking boxes of sweets home for friends and family.

A significant challenge emerged in July 2024 when malicious social media rumours attempted to tarnish the shop's reputation by falsely suggesting non-vegetarian ingredients in their sweets. The local police department swiftly investigated and comprehensively debunked these claims, reaffirming Prem Sweets' longstanding commitment to quality and transparency.

The current owner reflects on the journey with pride, tracing the evolution from his grandfather's vision in Kud to becoming a name recognized across Jammu and Kashmir. This success is attributed not just to their product, but to generations of hard work, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to maintaining the highest standards.

As Prem Di Hatti approaches its centennial celebration, it represents more than just a sweet shop. It is a cultural touchstone, a testament to Kashmir's rich culinary heritage, and a symbol of entrepreneurial spirit that continues to sweeten the journeys of countless travellers.

The shop's enduring popularity is perhaps best captured by a salesman's confident assertion: "Everyone who comes back to Kashmir visits us because we sell quality." This simple statement encapsulates the essence of Prem Sweets—a place where tradition, taste, and trust converge.