A simple street beverage has captured the nation's imagination, all thanks to a key scene in the blockbuster film Dhurandhar. The drink, known as Doodh Soda, has exploded in popularity across India after its prominent feature in a sequence set in Karachi's Lyari area.
The Dhurandhar Connection: A Spy's Cover
In the movie, a Doodh Soda stall serves as the perfect cover for an Indian spy, played by actor Gaurav Gera. Disguised as a vendor named Mohammad Aalam, Gera's character delivers a now-iconic line: "Darling Darling Dil kyu toda. Peelo peelo Aalam soda." The scene gains further significance when Ranveer Singh's character, Hamza Ali Mazari, takes shelter at the same stall.
As Hamza becomes a helper, Gera's spy teaches him the art of making the perfect doodh soda. This moment is part of a high-stakes covert mission within Pakistan. The film's massive reach, with its box office collection eyeing the ₹900 crore mark worldwide, has propelled this humble drink into the spotlight.
What Is This Viral Doodh Soda?
In reality, Doodh Soda is a famous and nostalgic street drink in Pakistan, particularly in cities like Lahore and Karachi. It is a daily favourite and sees heavy demand during summer and the holy month of Ramadan, where it is a popular iftar choice.
The drink is made by mixing chilled milk with a clear lemon-lime soft drink like Sprite or 7 Up. The key, as highlighted in the film, is not to mix it too vigorously to prevent the milk from curdling. Most recipes call for equal parts milk and soda, though some prefer a slightly milkier version.
Its taste is a unique blend of sweet, creamy, and lightly fizzy. The carbonation gives the milk an airy, frothy texture that many find incredibly refreshing. The flavour balance is delicate; too much soda can cause curdling, while too little makes it overly thick.
How to Make Dhurandhar-Style Doodh Soda at Home
Recreating this viral trend at home is simple. You need just a few basic ingredients:
- Chilled, full-fat milk (boiled and cooled)
- Chilled lemon-lime soda (Sprite, 7Up)
- Sugar or honey (optional)
- Ice cubes
Use a 1:1 or 1.5:1 ratio of milk to soda for a creamy consistency. Pour one cup of milk into a tall glass with ice. Dissolve sugar if needed. Then, slowly add one cup of soda along the side of the glass to preserve the fizz. Give it a light stir and enjoy immediately.
Pro Tip: Always chill both ingredients beforehand. This step is crucial to minimize the reaction between the milk and the acidic soda. For variations, you can add rose syrup (Rooh Afza), cardamom, basil seeds, or even a splash of cola.
Health Considerations and the Current Trend
While delicious, Doodh Soda isn't for everyone. The combination can cause bloating or discomfort for some, as the acids may react with the milk in the stomach. People with lactose intolerance, IBS, acidity, or gastritis are advised to avoid it, as it can aggravate symptoms. It's also a sugary drink, so moderation is key for weight management.
Despite this, the Dhurandhar effect is undeniable. Street vendors across India are reporting a surge in sales as people rush to try the "Dhurandhar-style" Doodh Soda. The trend highlights how cinema can influence food culture, turning a regional Pakistani classic into a pan-Indian summer curiosity overnight.
