Aathi Kalathu Nei Mittai Kadai, more than 130 years old shop in Madurai serving traditional sweets and savouries that evoke nostalgia
Aathi Kalathu Nei Mittai Kadai, a 130-year-old sweet shop in Madurai, remains a local landmark known for its traditional wheat halwa and commitment to original recipes. The shop has resisted the trend of modernizing into a multi-product bakery to preserve its heritage.
Why it matters
It highlights the cultural significance of traditional businesses in maintaining local identity amidst rapid commercial modernization.
In the bustling streets near the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a small shop continues to draw crowds, just as it has done for generations. The Aathi Kalathu Original Nei Mittai Kadai, which is more than 130 years old, is easy to spot near Pudumandapam thanks to its red board. Inside, shelves and the trays are filled with sweets and savouries that have been sold here for decades.
People buying and tasting halwa at Aathi Kalathu Nei Mittai Kadai near Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai. | Photo Credit: R. ASHOK
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