Dating back 400-year-old Sarsatia sweet from Sambalpur eyes GI tag
Dating back 400-year-old Sarsatia sweet from Sambalpur eyes GI tag
Digital Desk: In Sambalpur, Odisha, a 160-year-old confectionery run by Prabhulal Gupta preserves a mid-19th-century or 400-year-old culinary tradition by crafting Sarsatia, a dessert believed to be exclusive to the region. The recipe, which has been handed down through the generations, is a representation of Sambalpur's cultural heritage and local taste.
The legacy-carrying sweet ‘Sarsatia’ is made from the Ganja tree's resin; it ensembles a unique texture, earthy scent, and delicate sweetness. The resin is meticulously extracted, purified, and combined with rice powder and sugar.
Notably, it is to be mentioned that Prabhulal Gupta, the family that has been producing Sarsatia for three generations, is the one carrying out this legacy; following the GI tag involvement, they stated, “I've given some background on the delicacy. I'm working with my family to preserve this traditional cuisine. My younger generation is eager to create Sarsatia as well.”
The delicacy was a household favourite in western Odisha as early as the 16th century, according to historical records. Its strong cultural ties are highlighted by the memories of families offering it to Maa Samaleswari or soaking it in milk during celebrations like Dussehra.
Sarsatia's attempts to obtain a Geographical Indication (GI) tag have accelerated recently. Similar to the acknowledgement bestowed upon Banarasi sarees or Darjeeling tea, a GI tag safeguards regionally distinctive goods and guarantees that only legitimate producers are permitted to use the name.
Such recognition for Sambalpur would entail preserving authenticity against copying, promoting Odisha's culinary legacy both domestically and internationally, and generating revenue for local residents and confectioners.
