Pendawala Duliram Ratanlal Sharma, an iconic establishment nestled in Vadodara’s historic Jambubet area. For over 162 years, this renowned store has captivated locals and visitors alike with its signature offering: Mathura Peda, affectionately known as Duliram Penda locally.
Founded in 1862 by brothers Duliram and Maharam Sharma, who migrated from a village near the Rajasthan-Mathura border, the shop quickly gained prominence under the patronage of Maharaja Khanderao II Gaekwad of Baroda. It is said that during a Dussehra procession, the Maharaja’s elephant halted at the shop, refusing to move until it was appeased with Duliram’s penda—an anecdote that underscores the penda’s early royal endorsement.
The penda’s fame transcended local borders when Maharaja Sayajirao III, during his visit to England, introduced Queen Victoria to these delectable treats. Mistaking them for chocolate due to their rich flavor and texture, Queen Victoria developed a fondness for them, leading to their inclusion in royal gatherings and accolades for the Sharma brothers upon Sayajirao III’s return.
Today, Pendawala Duliram Ratanlal Sharma continues to thrive under the stewardship of Jatin Sharma and his brother, Himanshu, descendants of Maharam Sharma. While the original store in Raopura remains the nucleus of their operations, modern outlets in other areas cater to a broader clientele, ensuring the penda’s tradition and quality endure.
This legacy is not just about culinary craftsmanship but also reflects a cultural exchange between Baroda and the wider world—a testament to how a humble sweet from Vadodara captivated the taste buds of royalty and continues to be cherished by connoisseurs of traditional Indian sweets today. Whether you savor it for its historical significance or its exquisite flavor, a visit to Duliram Ratanlal Sharma Pendawala is a journey through time and taste, celebrating Baroda’s rich culinary heritage.
Central to their success is the commitment to originality. They continue to source fresh mava from Ratlam daily and use traditional cardboard boxes, which hold deep sentimental value for their patrons. Despite introducing new sweets like kaju katli and Bengali sweets, the Mathura Peda remains their most cherished and best-selling item.
Production blends tradition with modern technology. Automatic machines assist in preparation, yet the final touch—hand-coating each peda with castor sugar—ensures every piece retains its artisanal charm. This meticulous process reflects their dedication to quality.
The shop’s legacy is also upheld by skilled artisans like Mohanbhai and Bahadur, who pass down their expertise orally, ensuring consistency without written recipes. Suppliers and staff, many with decades-long associations, uphold stringent hygiene standards, crucial for maintaining the shop’s reputation.
Overcoming challenges, including baseless rumors of management changes, the shop continues to flourish. Supported by generations of loyal patrons, Duliram Ratanlal Sharma Pendawala looks to the future with optimism. The next generation, represented by Jatin Sharma’s niece, aims to expand their reach through potential exports and an online presence, guided by the same principles of quality and tradition.
As a beacon of Vadodara’s culinary heritage, Duliram Ratanlal Sharma Pendawala not only offers sweets but also preserves a legacy of craftsmanship, community, and enduring quality that resonates through each bite of their beloved Mathura Peda.
Info Sources: Indian Express & Duliram Pendawala
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