Hyderabadi Haleem Sales Hit Record High Across Indian Cities During Ramadan

India: Sales of Hyderabadi Haleem have reached record levels this year during the holy month of Ramadan in various Indian cities. According to food business circles, sales have increased by 30 to 50 percent compared to the past five years. In Hyderabad alone, between 50,000 and 70,000 kilograms of haleem are being sold daily, compared to 35,000 to 45,000 kilograms last year.

In Chennai, demand for Hyderabadi Haleem has risen by 40 to 60 percent. In Bengaluru, long queues are being seen outside haleem outlets on Fridays and Saturdays, while online orders have doubled. In the areas of Old Delhi, a 20 to 30 percent increase in sales has been recorded during iftar hours.

Hyderabadi Haleem has now emerged as a nationwide brand. Several leading brands are achieving significant sales in other cities under the name of Hyderabadi Haleem. Special promotions by food delivery apps have further boosted demand.

The growing demand has had a direct impact on the earnings of skilled haleem chefs. Reports suggest that experienced haleem chefs working at major outlets in Hyderabad are earning between 200,000 and 250,000 rupees in a single month of Ramadan—higher than the monthly salaries of many corporate jobs. Chefs and supporting staff working at smaller outlets or temporary haleem centers are earning between 3,000 and 5,000 rupees per day.

Leading brands book top chefs up to six months in advance and also provide them with bonuses and additional benefits.

The preparation of haleem involves a slow-cooking process lasting between 12 to 18 hours. It includes the balanced use of specific spices, thoroughly tenderizing the meat, and continuously stirring the mixture to achieve the perfect consistency. All these stages can only be properly executed by experienced and skilled chefs.