Traditional sharbat sees rising demand as heat intensifies in twin cities

ISLAMABAD: As temperatures rise in Islamabad and Rawalpindi and households begin preparing for Eid, traditional summer drinks are drawing renewed interest, with Imli-Aloo Bukhara sharbat emerging as a popular choice at roadside stalls and juice shops.

The drink, prepared with tamarind and dried plums along with sugar, black salt, mint and chilled water, is seeing stronger demand across the twin cities. Vendors say many customers are turning to it for relief from the heat instead of choosing soft drinks or packaged juices.

Imran, who has been selling the beverage for more than 10 years, said sales increase noticeably during the hottest days of the season as people look for natural options to cool down. Shopkeepers also say traditional sharbats generally sell more in summer, especially in the run-up to Eid, with Imli-Aloo Bukhara sharbat remaining a preferred option alongside Rooh Afza, sattu and lemonade.

Residents say the drink carries a sense of familiarity beyond its seasonal appeal. Hiba, a university student, said it reminds her of childhood summers when homemade sharbats were commonly prepared at home, and said its flavour is also tied to memories of Eid gatherings and family occasions.

Health experts are encouraging the use of natural summer beverages, saying drinks made from fruits and herbs can help the body stay hydrated, aid digestion and ease fatigue linked to severe heat, particularly in crowded urban settings.

Traders and street vendors say customer traffic tends to rise in the evening when temperatures dip slightly, with many families buying chilled sharbat to take home in the days before Eid. Vendors added that prices have largely remained steady despite the increase in demand, allowing workers and families to continue buying affordable servings in busy commercial areas.

Social media has also contributed to the drink’s visibility, with younger consumers sharing recommendations and posts about traditional beverages as Eid approaches. Many residents describe Imli-Aloo Bukhara sharbat as part of a wider food heritage that continues to hold its place despite the dominance of modern soft drinks in urban life.

With summer heat and Eid preparations unfolding at the same time, the drink is being embraced not only as a way to cool off but also as a familiar part of seasonal and family traditions passed down across generations.