The Aditya Dhar-directed blockbuster 'Dhurandhar', starring Ranveer Singh, is not just breaking box office records but is also creating unexpected cultural waves. Beyond its gripping narrative and stellar performances, a pre-partition era beverage featured prominently in the film has captured the public's imagination, turning into a major viral trend.
The 'Doodh Soda' Stall: More Than Just a Set Piece
In the film, the 'Doodh Soda' stall is far from a mere background prop. It serves as the operational base for Gaurav Gera's character, Mohammad Aalam, a middle-aged juice seller in Lyari's main market. This shop is, in fact, a clever cover for an undercover Indian spy who has been living on enemy territory for years, gathering intelligence amidst dangerous gangs and mobsters.
The stall becomes a critical safe house for Ranveer Singh's character, Hamza Ali Mazari, providing him shelter and aiding his infiltration into Rehman Daikat's notorious gang. It transforms into a covert communication hub where spies exchange vital information in plain sight. The shop's significance is amplified by Gaurav Gera's catchy dialogue, "Darling, Darling, Dil kyu toda. Peelo peelo, Aalam soda," which has left an indelible mark on audiences.
What Exactly is This Viral 'Doodh Soda'?
So, what is this drink that everyone is suddenly talking about? Doodh Soda is a surprisingly simple concoction of milk mixed with lemon-lime soda. While the combination might sound unusual to the uninitiated, it is known for its uniquely addictive taste profile.
Its origins, however, are steeped in history. This now-trending beverage first emerged in undivided Punjab long before branded soft drinks became commonplace in India. It was the result of culinary experimentation with various flavored sodas like rose, khus, and lemon, eventually leading to the creation of the milk soda variant.
A Sip of History: From Victorian England to Modern Pop Culture
Historical accounts, including a report from NDTV, trace the blend's roots back to Victorian England. The drink traveled to undivided India during the British Raj and gained significant popularity, especially on the other side of the border, after the Partition of 1947.
The film 'Dhurandhar' has effectively resurrected this forgotten relic, propelling it into contemporary pop culture. The sequences featuring the drink are not just quirky additions but are woven into the narrative's fabric, setting the pace for the plot's development. This cinematic spotlight has sparked curiosity and a nationwide desire to try the vintage Doodh Soda, proving once again the powerful influence of Bollywood on India's food and beverage trends.
