The stage is set for Ramzan. But for those waiting to savour the season’s flavour, Haleem, there is no good news. Haleem aficionados will be forced to spend more this year.
Hoteliers expect the prices to touch Rs.100 a plate at popular eateries of the city. They attribute the increase to the rise in prices of commodities including wheat, meat and vegetables.
“There is a huge rise in prices of different commodities that go in for the preparation of Haleem. A kilogram of garlic and ginger is now priced at Rs. 180, and wheat prices have also increased drastically,” says Mohd. Irfan of Shah Ghouse Hotel.
The fluctuating prices of fuel will also have an impact on transportation charges, indirectly contributing to the increase in prices of commodities. “We have to depend on vehicles for transportation of Haleem or the commodities needed for its preparation, and certainly fuel prices will have to be taken into account before finalising the price,” says Mohd. Saleem, chairman, Twin Cities Hotel Owners Association.
The prices of mutton, chicken and restricted supply of cooking gas and increase in power charges will also play a role in fixing the prices, he added and said that he expected a price rise of Rs. 5 to Rs. 10 per plate.
There are more than 30 popular Haleem joints in the city. This apart, there are umpteen number of small hotels and eateries that prepare Haleem on a small scale.
