Do You Know Why Thandai Is Consumed On Holi?

‘Bura Na Maano, Holi Hai’! Holi is all about celebrating and letting go. If you ask me, Holi is my favourite festival. Why not? Vibrant colours all over the air with splashes of water colours on white kurtas. People of all age groups applying gulal to each other's faces with so much laughter and happiness. Apart from this, there is one more thing that completes this festival of colours. I think you have guessed it. It is the OG Thandai.  

Also Read: Holi 2023; Relish This Creamy Strawberry Thandai On Holi Party

Thandai is one such desi drink that truly signifies the carefree spirit of the festival. For those who don’t know, thandai is a drink made up of fragrant spices and nuts like almonds, cardamom, black pepper, poppy seeds, fennel, rose and sometimes bhang. Holi and thandai go hand in hand but have you ever wondered why thandai is significant to Holi?  

This desi drink has its root in Varanasi (previously known as Benaras) and is one of the oldest drinks in the country. It has always been believed to be an offering for Lord Shiva and thus, consumed on Mahashivratri too. Holi falls just after a few days of Mahashivratri and thus, it has become an essential part of the festival. And you know what? Not always the thandai is laced with bhang. You can have thandai with or without bhang, totally your choice! 

Another reason why thandai is consumed on Holi is that it is a drink known for its cooling properties and soothes the body from within. At the time of Holi, the weather changes and the body also undergo many changes. Immunity gets affected too but this drink not only improves immunity but also helps strengthen the gut system. Besides, it can boost the energy level, improve skin health and boosts memory, thanks to its desi ingredients. Let us know about the key ingredients present in thandai.  

Fennel Or Saunf 

Fennel is power packed with minerals like calcium, zinc, vitamin C, Iron etc. It works as a coolant against the slowly rising temperature. Besides, it promotes a better digestive system and even can cure flatulence.  

Almonds And Poppy Seeds  

Poppy seeds, almonds and sometimes melon seeds are loaded with fiber. Besides, they carry antioxidants and healthy fats. While almonds are high in vitamins like vitamin E and can benefit the body in so many ways, poppy seeds are packed with calcium. They are beneficial for heart health and bone health.  

Cardamom And Black Pepper 

Spices like cardamom and black pepper are an essential part of thandai. Not just they lend a great flavour but so many health benefits. While black pepper warms the body for the last winter bit, cardamom helps in promoting good oral health.  

Rose Petals 

Thandai has dried rose petals that enhances the flavour of this desi drink. Rose petals contain phytochemicals and are considered to be a boon for skin. Rose petals contain vitamin C and can prevent infections too.

Have a safe and happy Holi!