The Legends of Toshewala
Pakpatniya di hati
History of Toshewala
There is a famous saying about Lahore: “Jis Lahore nahi dekheya, o jammeya hi nahi” (One who hasn’t seen Lahore hasn’t truly lived). Similarly, regarding the delicacy Tosha from Fazilka, it is said: “One who hasn’t tasted the Tosha of Fazilka’s Toshewala hasn’t truly visited Fazilka”.
The golden-brown sweet called “Tosha” originated before the Partition of India in Pakpattan (now in Pakistan). This traditional Punjabi sweet is considered a symbol of peace, happiness, and contentment.
For up to two years after the Partition of India and Pakistan, Tosha remained a favorite delicacy primarily among displaced families who had migrated from Pakistan. Today, however, successive generations across the region continue to cherish this traditional treat. Famous nationwide, visitors to the border town of Fazilka not only savor the Tosha made by Toshewala but also make sure to carry it back for their relatives across India and abroad.
The family of Munshi Ram Grover, renowned for crafting Tosha in the city of Pakpattan, settled in Fazilka after Partition, which marked the beginning of their Tosha sweet business here. Prior to Partition, Munshi Ram Grover and his family ran their confectionery business in Pakpattan (Pakistan). Following Partition, they lived in Saharanpur for a year before relocating to Fazilka in 1948. Initially, they began preparing sweets for weddings and special occasions. Soon, his sons joined in to assist with the business. Then, in 1949, they established Pakpatniyan di Hatti, which is currently operated by their third and fourth generations.
Many other sweet makers have made unsuccessful attempts to replicate this sweet. When asked about the secret behind its unique flavor, Rajaram remarks, “There is no secret,” though it is believed that the exact proportion and measure of the ingredients remain known exclusively to this family.
Moving Towards Modernization
Always upholding the highest standards of cleanliness and purity, Pakpatniya confectioners are now taking their brand “Toshewala” further by introducing automated processes for kneading and cutting the mawa (khoya), refined flour, and paneer. Catering to customer demand, they have also begun preparing variants such as Desi Ghee Tosha, Sugar-Free Tosha, Hanuman Ji prasad Tosha, and various flavored Toshas.
Today, the third and fourth generations of founder Munshi Ram Grover and his sons—Roshan Lal, Chiman Lal, Madan Lal, Rajaram, and Amrit Lal—continue to carry forward the legacy of the Toshewala brand. The brand is also registered and reachable via JUST DIAL.
Beware of Imitations. Tosha means Toshewala.