As some sweet shops rename Mysore Pak, Aam Pak after Operation Sindoor, language expert explains the true meaning of 'Pak'

In the patriotic afterglow of Operation Sindoor, India’s sweeping military retaliation against terror camps across the border, a symbolic storm has been brewing—not on the battlefield, but in sweet shops. In Jaipur, Rajasthan, traditional Indian delicacies such as Moti Pak, Aam Pak, and Gond Pak have suddenly donned new avatars as Moti Shree, Aam Shree, and Gond Shree. The move, intended to disassociate the word “Pak” from Pakistan, was framed as a sweet tribute to national unity.

But linguists and history tell us—this sugary name-change might just be a misplaced dessert decision.

Operation Sindoor and a Wave of Symbolic Sentiments

Launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, Operation Sindoor was India’s tri-services military operation targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Named after the sacred red powder that signifies marital commitment and sacrifice in Hindu tradition, the operation struck a deep emotional chord nationwide.

As the country celebrated its success with firecrackers, slogans, and sweets, some chose to take things a step further—by editing the menu. But renaming beloved confections wasn't merely an emotional impulse. It became a symbol of distancing from all things perceived to carry ‘Pak’ in their name, even if the connection was historically and linguistically unfounded.

‘Pak’ Isn’t What You Think It Is

Enter Abhishek Avtans, a linguist and lecturer in Indic languages, who promptly pointed out that this semantic crusade was rooted in a misunderstanding. His brief yet incisive tweet explained that ‘Pak’ in Indian sweets has nothing to do with the modern political term ‘Pakistan’. In fact, it originates from the Kannada word paka, meaning sweet preparation or syrup, and shares etymological ties with the Sanskrit pakva—meaning cooked, ripe, or baked.

In Hindi too, related words like paag refer to sugar syrup or stages of sugar caramelization. This culinary heritage runs deep, tracing through centuries of Indian food traditions, long before any geopolitical tensions existed.

Mysore Pak: A Legacy Sweetened by History, Not Politics

Perhaps the most iconic bearer of the ‘Pak’ suffix is Mysore Pak—a treat born in the royal kitchens of Mysore’s Amba Vilas Palace. Created by royal chef Kakasura Madappa as an experimental delight of gram flour, ghee, and sugar, the sweet was named on the spot when the king demanded to know what this heavenly creation was called. "Mysore Pak," Madappa replied—pak referring to the syrupy texture of the sweetened base. The king loved it so much he asked Madappa to start a sweet shop, and the rest is culinary legend.

Even today, Madappa’s descendants carry on the tradition at Guru Sweets in Mysore’s Devaraja Market, proudly serving what remains a timeless favorite of the region.

When Culture Is Lost in Translation

While patriotic sentiments are valid and the desire to honor national sacrifice commendable, we need to be careful while rewriting cultural history in pursuit of political symbolism. Sweets like Mysore Pak are not just desserts; they are edible heritage—part of India’s regional linguistic, culinary, and emotional landscape.

One word can hold layers of meaning across languages and regions. In the rush to affirm national pride, we risk diluting the very things that make our heritage unique. By renaming a centuries-old sweet based on a misunderstood etymology, we may be creating more confusion than cohesion. As India moves forward with strength and unity, let’s ensure our traditions—especially the ones that bring sweetness to our lives—are honored for what they truly represent.