Watch: This 133-year-old Shop Sells Special Suhagrat Couple Paan For Newlyweds

In Banaras, indulging in the renowned Banarasi paan is a must, considered to be the second most famous thing in this holy city. While paan variations exist across the country, Banarasi paan stands out due to its distinctive betel leaves, ingredients, and preparation methods. One iconic paan establishment in the oldest city in India, Banaras, is Netaji Paan Bhandar, boasting a history of 133 years. Notably, during the wedding season, this paan shop gains recognition for crafting a special Suhagrat Couple Paan, tailor-made for newlywed couples.

Operated by Vikas Chaurasia, Netaji Paan Bhandar is renowned for this special paan, which witnesses heightened demand during wedding celebrations. Chaurasia shares that although the shop offers a diverse range of paan, the Suhagrat Couple Paan is a sought-after item, exclusively prepared upon special orders. Priced at around Rs 1,100, the offering includes two paans, one for each spouse.

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The preparation of this unique paan involves a blend of approximately 40 spices encased in a Magahi betel leaf. Ingredients encompass a variety of elements, including differently coloured cherries, gulkand, saffron, chuna (lime), katha, chuara (dates), and fennel seeds. Notably, a layer of silver and golden vark is meticulously applied to enhance its visual appeal.

Netaji Paan Bhandar offers an array of paan varieties beyond the Suhagrat Couple Paan, such as Giroli Kesar, Pineapple, Sandalwood, Sweet Malai, and Kasturi.

Situated near the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Banaras, this modest shop has been catering to patrons for almost four generations. The clientele includes prominent Bollywood celebrities, political figures, and even former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who frequented this age-old paan establishment.

Interestingly, many are unaware that the plan used in the iconic Bollywood song ‘Khaike Paan Banaras Wale,’ featuring the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, was sourced from Netaji Paan Bhandar.