Hyderabad Bakers hold Dum ke Roat prices despite rising fuel costs

Hyderabad bakeries are facing rising production costs due to higher fuel prices linked to global tensions, but many have chosen not to increase the price of Dum ke Roat. The iconic Muharram cookie remains a cherished tradition and a symbol of the city's heritage.

Hyderabad: The ongoing tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States may seem far removed from Hyderabad’s bustling bakery industry, but the ripple effects are being felt in the city’s ovens.

A rise in the prices of commercial LPG cylinders, firewood, diesel and petrol has increased production and transportation costs, forcing bakers to trim their profit margins on Dum ke Roat—the iconic cookie that makes its annual appearance during the Islamic month of Muharram.

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Despite the mounting costs, bakery owners across the city have chosen not to pass on the burden to customers, keeping prices unchanged in a bid to preserve a cherished tradition and ease the pressure on consumers already grappling with rising living expenses.

The aroma of ghee, butter, sugar and roasted nuts has once again begun wafting through Hyderabad’s bakeries as Dum ke Roat returns to shelves after nearly a year. The much-awaited delicacy enjoys a special place in the city’s culinary and cultural landscape and is closely associated with Muharram observances.

Almost the size of a tea saucer, the crisp cookie is prepared using wheat flour, semolina, vegetable oil, sugar, honey, clarified butter, salt, cardamom and milk products. Rich in flavour and steeped in history, it continues to attract customers from across the city during the first ten days of Muharram.

At Subhan Bakery in Nampally, preparations are in full swing to meet the seasonal demand. Bakery owner Syed Irfan said maintaining quality and hygiene remains a priority.

“All precautions are taken to ensure hygiene while preparing the cookie. It is also neatly packed to avoid direct contact while dispensing,” he assured. A Kilogram at Subhan Bakery is priced at Rs 780.

“Although the cost of ingredients has increased following the rise in fuel prices, we have not revised the prices this year. A kilogram of Dum ke Roat is being sold for Rs 880,” said M.A. Majid of Pista House.

For many bakery owners, keeping prices steady has come at a cost. Muzaffar Khan, proprietor of Rose Bakery in Chaderghat, said the bakery had decided to continue selling Dum ke Roat at last year’s rate despite shrinking margins.

“We are selling Dum ke Roat at Rs 700 per kilogram, the same price as last year. We get a meagre profit, but because people are also feeling the pinch of rising costs, we have decided not to increase the price,” he said.

The story of Dum ke Roat is deeply connected with Hyderabad’s royal past. According to historical accounts, the cookie was distributed to mourners participating in Muharram processions during the reign of the Nizams. Over time, the practice evolved into a cherished culinary tradition, making the cookie an indispensable part of Muharram in the city.

As Ashoora, the tenth day of Muharram, approaches, customers are already making a beeline to bakeries to purchase the seasonal treat. Long queues, advance bookings and brisk sales have become common sights, reflecting the enduring popularity of a cookie that transcends generations.

For Hyderabadis, Dum ke Roat is more than just a baked delicacy. It is a symbol of heritage, faith and community—one that continues to bring people together even as bakers absorb rising costs to keep the tradition alive.