Exploring the Legends of Multan’s Sohan Halwa

When you mention "سوہن حلوہ", the mind immediately conjures up the golden, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness that has become synonymous with Multan. From bustling markets to quiet homes, this iconic dessert is a part of every Multani’s life, representing the city’s rich culture, history, and hospitality. It is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a symbol of tradition, a reflection of cultural richness, and a beloved tradition that transcends borders.

The Sweet Origin of Sohan Halwa

Sohan Halwa, a signature sweet of Multan, has an intriguing origin. One popular tale credits a Hindu confectioner named Sohan, who, when faced with خراب دودھ (spoiled milk), experimented by boiling it with wheat flour, creating a rich, dense treat. His invention quickly gained fame, even catching the attention of Deewan Sawan Mal, the governor of Multan under Raja Ranjeet Singh.

Alternatively, some Multanis believe the sweet was introduced by Deewan Sawan Mal himself, who popularized it in his royal palace. Others claim it has Persian roots, brought to Multan by Iranian confectioners. Whatever the true origin, Multan proudly claims Sohan Halwa as its own legendary delicacy.

A Symbol of Multani Hospitality

Sohan Halwa is more than just a sweet; it’s a symbol of Multan’s renowned hospitality. Traditionally prepared at home, it was sent as a gift to family and friends, especially during winters. This custom, rooted in the city’s values of مہمان نوازی (hospitality), became a way for Multanis to maintain connections with loved ones, even across cities and borders.

As poet and historian Shakir Hussain Shakir notes, the practice of sending Sohan Halwa began when daughters married into other cities. Over time, families started preparing it commercially, spreading its fame. Today, Sohan Halwa remains a cherished part of Multani culture, with many still preparing it at home for special occasions, preserving this sweet tradition.

Crafting Perfection Over Generations

Sohan Halwa, crafted with almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and occasionally saffron, is a sweet that has evolved over centuries. Brands like Hafiz Ka Multani Sohan Halwa, founded in 1930 by Hafiz Ahmed Din, have carried this legacy forward, blending traditional methods with modern techniques. Originally a home-based operation, the brand now stands as a symbol of quality and authenticity, earning international accolades like the American International Quality Awards in 1993 and 1997.

Despite the changing times, the recipe remains largely unchanged, with some producers offering variations such as dry fruit-infused versions. Hafiz Ka Multani continues to preserve the authentic taste of Multan, with innovative packaging and a commitment to excellence that has made it a household name in the region and beyond.

The Sweetest Sight: From Multan’s Stations to Airports

Walking through the streets of Multan, you’ll hear the familiar chant: “!سوہن حلوہ لے لیں” at bus stations and railway stations, where travelers eager for a taste of Sohan Halwa stock up on the sweet before they head home or abroad. In airports, it’s placed on shop shelves for customers to buy on their own.

Sohan Halwa has become more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of Multani culture, spreading the warmth and hospitality of the city to far-flung places. Even outside Pakistan, it has found its fans, particularly among the Pakistani community in the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

The Heartfelt Sweetness of Multan

No matter where you hear the story, one thing is certain: Sohan Halwa is more than just a dessert—it's a symbol of love that has been passed down through generations, crossing borders and touching hearts. Whether it’s the home recipe shared with loved ones, or the commercial version found in shops, every bite carries the essence of Multan's warmth and hospitality.

Next time you enjoy this delicious treat, know that you're not just savoring a sweet—you're indulging in a centuries-old tradition that brings people together, one bite at a time.

It's not just a sweet treat, it's a halwa of love, tradition, and pure bliss.

 "!جتھاں میٹھا کھائیں، اتھاں یاداں سجائیں"

(Where sweetness is tasted, memories are made.)