Putharekulu: The Paper Sweet That Put Telangana on the World Sweet Map
Among the thousands of sweets found across India, Putharekulu stands in a league of its own. This extraordinary sweet, made from impossibly thin rice starch sheets layered with ghee and filling, is Telangana's most iconic contribution to the world of confectionery.
Origin Story
Putharekulu (literally "layers of coating" in Telugu) originated in the village of Atreyapuram in the East Godavari district. The craft of making these paper-thin sheets of rice starch on an inverted pot is a skill that takes years to master. Artisans use a cloth pad to spread the thinnest possible layer of rice batter over a heated inverted clay pot, creating translucent sheets that are almost see-through.
How Putharekulu Is Made
The rice starch sheets are carefully peeled off and filled with a mixture of powdered sugar and ghee (or dry fruits in the premium version). Multiple sheets are stacked and folded to create a multi-layered sweet that literally melts in your mouth. The entire process is done by hand — there are no machines that can replicate this delicate art.
Why Putharekulu Is Special
What makes Putharekulu extraordinary is its texture. The paper-thin layers dissolve on your tongue, releasing waves of sweetness and the rich aroma of ghee. Each bite is a masterpiece of culinary engineering. The sweet has gained such fame that it was awarded a GI (Geographical Indication) tag, recognising its unique origin and traditional preparation method.
At Sampradaaya Foods, our Putharekulu is sourced directly from traditional artisans who have been making this sweet for generations. Available in both sugar and dry fruit varieties.