Biryani, a mixed rice dish made with spices, rice and meat or vegetables, was a camp item made in the barracks of Mughal armies. It tastes different in various parts of the Indian subcontinent. In Dhaka, we can vow by the biryani a certain Haji (one who has returned from the Hajj pilgrimage) from Puran Dhaka (older parts of Dhaka) prepares. Operating since 1939 when its proprietor returned from the Hajj, Haji Biryani to this date sells only one item: mutton biryani. Made with bite-sized chunks of beef and long-grained rice, this dish is served with a yoghurt drink, the borhani. Made with spices including pepper, salt, mint leaves and more, borhani is the most assured way to wash down anything and Haji’s borhani holds its own in Dhaka. Served in a bowl made of dried kathaal or jackfruit leaves, Haji Biryani is a Puran Dhaka landmark.