The annual winter session of the Karnataka legislature in Belagavi may spark debates over its developmental impact on North Karnataka, but for the city's famed sweet makers, the recently concluded gathering was an unequivocal success. The 10-day event delivered a significant economic boost to the local traditional sweets industry, with shops reporting brisk sales and an impressive estimated turnover of around Rs 2.3 crore.
A Surge in Sales for Local Delicacies
Sweet marts in Belagavi experienced a remarkable surge in demand during the session, primarily for the region's signature confections: Kunda and Kardant. The influx of ministers, legislators, government officials, and employees from across the state, along with political leaders and activists participating in protests, translated into large-scale purchases of these local specialties.
Traders reported that sales momentum built up as the session progressed, culminating in an unprecedented spike in the final three days. During this closing period, an average of about 6 quintals (600 kg) of sweets were sold per day, a figure described by shop owners as extraordinary. Overall, this year's sales figures were markedly higher than those recorded during the previous four to five winter sessions held in the city.
From Daily Grind to Festival-Level Demand
The contrast between normal business days and the session period highlights the scale of the boom. On regular days, each sweet shop in Belagavi's market areas sells an average of 180 to 200 kg of Kunda and Kardant combined. However, during the legislature session, daily sales at these shops jumped dramatically to between 400 and 500 kg.
More Than Sweets: A Cultural Identity
The sweets at the center of this economic windfall are deeply woven into the region's cultural fabric. Kunda, a milk-based sweet synonymous with Belagavi, is renowned for its distinctive, rich taste. Kardant, made from dry fruits and edible gum, is traditionally considered a specialty of Gokak town within the district. Over the years, both these delicacies have come to symbolise the cultural and culinary identity of the entire Belagavi district.
While the broader political and developmental outcomes of the Belagavi session continue to be discussed, traders unanimously agree on one positive outcome. The event proved to be a financial windfall for the local sweets industry, powerfully highlighting the enduring appeal and economic potential of Belagavi's traditional flavours. The session served as a potent reminder that beyond politics, the region's culinary heritage holds significant value and can be a major driver of local commerce when showcased on a prominent platform.
