HYDERABAD: As cold weather has gripped the city since the winter made its advent, Barkas in the Old City of Hyderabad turns into a destination of sort for many in core city as they head to the area to relish the famous Arabic Barkas Ghava, a herbal concoction.
The Ghava, or Cava, is believed to have been first brought to Barkas by people from the Arabian peninsula who migrated in the 16th century to Hyderabad. “Many had migrated to the city to become soldiers in the army of the then Nizam and with them came ‘Cava’, which over time, has become ‘Ghava’,” according to Mohammed-Bin-Ahamed, a self-proclaimed Ghava addict.
Many believe that Ghava, which includes ingredients such as saffron, cardamom, raw dates, coffee, cinnamon, and black pepper, has medicinal properties and helps them keep their health in good condition. It is particularly popular during the winter season because its consumption – with each cup of Ghava priced between Rs 15 and Rs 20 - spreads a sense of warmth within.
Mohammed Saleem, who for the last 37 years has been selling Ghava from his ‘Saleem Ghava’ shop, said, “People come from long distances to taste my Ghava. While this drink may be available elsewhere, to taste the traditional Ghava, one has to come to Barkas.” It is available in limited ghava stalls only in Barkas. There was also an increased demand for Ghava powder during winters, he said, adding that most sales occurred during morning and evening hours.
Vikas Kumar, a resident of Sanathnagar who comes to Barkas only to get his Ghava fix, said, “Whenever I catch a cold or cough, I come here to have a cup of strong Ghava that cures me. It acts in minutes and I feel it is more effective than any medicine.”
