In a symbolic gesture of patriotism amid heightened national sentiment following Operation Sindoor, several sweet shop owners in Jaipur have decided to rename popular Indian sweets that contain the word “Pak,” citing its phonetic resemblance to “Pakistan.”
Traditional delicacies such as Moti Pak, Aam Pak, Gond Pak, and Mysore Pak will now be sold under new names — Moti Shree, Aam Shree, Gond Shree, and Mysore Shree. Shopkeepers say the move is intended to express solidarity with the armed forces and demonstrate their support for the recent military operation targeting terrorist camps across the border.
“Though these sweets have nothing to do with Pakistan, the word ‘Pak’ has an unfortunate association that makes customers uncomfortable in the current climate,” said Ramesh Mehra, a local sweet shop owner. “By renaming them, we are making a small yet meaningful statement of unity with our soldiers.”
Linguistically, the term “Pak” in Indian sweets traces its origins to the Sanskrit word Pakva, meaning cooked or ripe. It is also linked to the Hindi word Paag, referring to sugar syrup — a central ingredient in many confections. However, vendors argue that in today’s emotionally charged atmosphere, connotations often outweigh linguistic origins.
Despite the etymological background, the name change has found broad support among customers and vendors alike, who see it as a gesture of cultural pride and national solidarity.
Operation Sindoor, launched earlier this week, was a coordinated strike on terror launchpads across the Line of Control, drawing widespread public and political backing. The sweet shops’ move adds to a growing wave of symbolic tributes to the military effort being seen across various sectors.