Following a severe earthquake in Turkey, India promptly extended humanitarian assistance through “Operation Dost,” dispatching rescue teams, medical aid, medicines, food supplies, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) units to support relief efforts. The swift response underlined India’s commitment to international disaster relief. However, despite India’s assistance, Turkey has been criticized for its ongoing military support to Pakistan amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. Reports indicate Turkey has supplied missiles, bombs, weapons, and battle tanks to Pakistan, some of which have reportedly reached Indian border areas.
Baklava is a layered dessert made of filo pastry sheets, filled with chopped nuts, and sweetened with syrup or honey common in Greece, Turkey, Middle East and Maghreb.
Often, especially in Turkey, they are prepared with pistachio.
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Apart from its geopolitical role, Turkey is renowned for its traditional sweet, Baklava, which has a rich history dating back to the 8th century BCE. Baklava is popular across Turkey, Greece, and even India, where it is a sought-after delicacy in premium bakeries, sometimes commanding high prices. The sweet’s name is believed to derive from a Mongolian term meaning to wrap or weave, reflecting its layered pastry style. Historically, Baklava was a favored treat during the Assyrian and Ottoman empires, served at royal feasts and important gatherings, with regional variations in ingredients and taste.
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Interestingly, while Turkey supplies military aid to Pakistan, Indian bakeries often invite Turkish chefs to prepare Baklava due to strong local demand. This juxtaposition has sparked online debates, with social media users calling for a boycott of Turkish products under the hashtag #BoycottTurkey. Given the current political climate, the popularity of Turkish sweets in India may face challenges going forward.