Hyderabad, March 23 -- As summer tightens its grip on Hyderabad, the city begins its annual search for relief- chilled and refreshing glasses of something sweet. And in the heart of Old City, just a short walk away from Charminar, one small shop is once again at the centre of this ritual. This legendary refuge for the parched and sweaty is the Matwale Doodh Ghar at Shah Ali Banda.

Established in 1967, this dairy institution is not just a local favourite, it holds the distinction of being one of the first dedicated lassi shops in Hyderabad. For over five decades, the shop has witnessed the city's summers evolve, yet its recipe remains a cooling constant for generations of Hyderabadis.

A summer classic in Hyderabad

The "special lassi" he...