Lucknow, a city synonymous with Nawabi grandeur and rich culinary traditions, has unveiled a masterpiece in the world of confectionery—a sweet that redefines luxury. Chhappan Bhog, one of the city’s most celebrated sweet shops, has introduced “Exotica”, a mithai that combines opulence, artistry, and a legacy of indulgence.
Exotica isn’t just a sweet; it’s a statement piece, a gift of grandeur, and a sensory experience that elevates traditional mithai to the realm of luxury. With a price tag that can reach an astonishing ₹50,000 for a kilogram, this creation has captured the imagination of connoisseurs and sweet lovers since its inception in 2009.
The Origins of Exotica
The story of Exotica began over a decade ago with a customer’s special request. Tasked with creating a unique confectionery offering for an auspicious occasion, Chhappan Bhog’s team set out to craft something extraordinary. The result was Exotica—a fusion of the world’s finest ingredients, presented with unparalleled elegance. Since then, the sweet has steadily gained popularity, becoming a symbol of affluence, especially during weddings and festive celebrations.
Crafted with the World’s Finest Ingredients
Exotica’s creation is a meticulous process, a blend of rare and exquisite ingredients sourced globally. Each piece is a harmonious mix of premium nuts and dried fruits, selected for their unique flavors and origins:
- Pine Nuts from Kinnaur: Known for their delicate, buttery texture.
- Mamra Almonds from Iran: Prized for their crunch and superior quality.
- Pistachios from Afghanistan: Renowned for their vibrant green hue and rich flavor.
- Macadamia Nuts from South Africa: A creamy, luxurious addition.
- Hazelnuts from Turkey: Offering a distinct nutty sweetness.
- Saffron from Kashmir: Adding the subtle aroma and golden hue of the world’s most expensive spice.
To crown this creation, each piece is garnished with 24-carat edible gold, elevating it to a culinary masterpiece.
Pricing and Demand
Exotica is not just a sweet; it’s an experience crafted for a niche clientele. The journey of indulgence begins at ₹2,000 for a box of four pieces, with individual sweets priced at ₹500 each (weighing approximately 10 grams). For those seeking to make a grand statement during weddings or festivals, the price can escalate to ₹50,000 for a box of 100 pieces, each representing a perfect blend of artistry and extravagance.
Despite its premium pricing, Exotica has seen consistent demand. Ravindra Kumar, the owner of Chhappan Bhog, shares that the shop sells three to four boxes priced at ₹2,000 daily. Meanwhile, larger orders, often reserved for significant celebrations, continue to contribute to its status as a luxury gifting item.
Exotica has redefined what mithai can be. It transcends the boundaries of tradition and luxury, offering an experience that caters to the senses and affirms one’s taste for the finer things in life. As Lucknow gears up for another festive season, Exotica remains a testament to the city’s enduring legacy of grandeur and innovation in culinary art.
