Some drinks just refresh you, but Thandai comes with history. It was once made by Ayurvedic experts to cool the body, enjoyed by warriors for strength, and loved by royals for its rich taste, these endless Thandai Benefits will surely amaze you!
Over time, it became a festive favorite, especially during Holi and Maha Shivaratri. But Thandai isn’t just about the past—it has found its way into modern desserts, cocktails, and health drinks. With every sip, you’re tasting a tradition that has grown and evolved over centuries. Cool, flavourful, and timeless—Thandai is here to stay!
Ancient Origins: Drink of Ayurveda and Royalty
Thandai finds its roots in ancient India, with references dating back over 1,000 years. The drink originated in North India, particularly in the regions of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, where it was prized for its cooling and digestive properties.
Mythological Links to Shiva
Hindu mythology tells the story of Lord Shiva, who is closely associated with bhang (cannabis leaves). According to legend, Shiva discovered the cooling and mind-calming effects of bhang while wandering in the Himalayas. It is said that he consumed bhang to remain in a meditative state, detached from worldly distractions. Over time, this practice became a sacred ritual among his devotees, who believed that consuming bhang brought them closer to divine consciousness.
As a tribute to Shiva’s ascetic lifestyle and spiritual strength, his followers began mixing bhang into Thandai, a spiced, milk-based drink, and offering it during Maha Shivaratri and Holi. Maha Shivaratri, dedicated to Lord Shiva, sees large gatherings of devotees consuming Bhang Thandai in temple courtyards, believing it to cleanse the mind and body, enhance focus, and invoke Shiva’s blessings.
During Holi, the festival of colors, Bhang Thandai became an integral part of celebrations, symbolising joy, liberation, and breaking free from inhibitions. The tradition remains strong in cities like Varanasi, Mathura, and Rajasthan, where government-approved shops sell bhang legally during the festival. Even today, Thandai—whether infused with bhang or not—continues to be a symbol of festivity, heritage, and divine indulgence, connecting generations to India’s deep-rooted spiritual and cultural traditions.
Ayurvedic Significance
According to Ayurvedic texts, Thandai is not just a refreshing beverage but a health-boosting concoction. Each of its ingredients—nuts, seeds, and spices—was chosen for its ability to balance the body’s heat, aid digestion, and improve immunity. Ayurvedic practitioners prescribed it for reducing body heat, enhancing digestion, and acting as a natural energy booster.
The Royal Connection
During the Rajput reign, Thandai was often served in silver and gold goblets, which were believed to enhance its therapeutic effects. The warrior kings of Rajasthan consumed Thandai before battles as an energising tonic, believing it would enhance their stamina and focus.
While in the Mughal era (16th–18th century), Thandai became popular in the royal courts. The Mughals were known for their lavish feasts, and they embraced Thandai as part of their exquisite summer refreshments. They introduced ingredients like saffron, rose water, and exotic nuts, giving Thandai a more luxurious appeal.
Nutritional Benefits of Thandai: An Ayurvedic Powerhouse With Wellness Experts At Niraamaya
Thandai is more than just a festive drink—it’s a nutrient-rich beverage that supports overall well-being. Rooted in Ayurveda, Thandai is known for its cooling properties, helping to balance Pitta dosha, which governs heat and metabolism in the body.
Rich in Essential Nutrients
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, cashews, and melon seeds provide healthy fats that regulate hormones and support cellular function.
- Proteins: Essential for muscle repair and growth, helping to balance Vata dosha and promote vitality.
Natural Cooling & Digestive Support
Ingredients like fennel, rose petals, and watermelon seeds help reduce excess body heat, making Thandai ideal for cooling the system and preventing acidity and inflammation. Cardamom and saffron aid digestion, improving nutrient absorption and metabolism.
Boosts Vitality & Mental Clarity
Ayurveda recognizes Thandai as a source of ojas (vital energy) and satva (mental clarity), enhancing both physical strength and cognitive function.
A Holistic Wellness Drink
With its blend of cooling herbs, nourishing nuts, and digestive spices, Thandai is not just a refreshing beverage but a natural immunity booster and stress reliever, making it a perfect addition to your wellness routine, especially during warm seasons.
What Makes Thandai So Special?
Thandai gets its magic from a mix of rich ingredients that add both taste and health benefits:
- Almonds & Cashews – Make it creamy and packed with energy
- Fennel Seeds – Help cool the body and aid digestion
- Rose Petals – Add a fragrant and refreshing twist
- Poppy & Melon Seeds – Give it a smooth, velvety texture
- Cardamom & Black Pepper – Bring in a hint of spice and warmth
Fun Twists on the Classic Thandai
While Badam Thandai (Almond Thandai) remains the original favorite, new versions are adding exciting flavors:
- Kesar-Pista Thandai – A royal blend with saffron and pistachios
- Rose Thandai – Infused with rose syrup for a floral touch
- Chocolate Thandai – A fun modern twist with a rich cocoa kick
- Vegan Thandai – Made with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option
Thandai Beyond the Glass! Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake with Thandai – Recipe by Executive Chef Kamlesh Rawat At Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai
Thandai isn’t just for drinking anymore—it’s now a star ingredient in desserts and cocktails! From Thandai cheesecakes and ice creams to Thandai martinis, this classic drink is getting a modern makeover.
Here is a Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake Recipe with Thandai by Executive Chef Kamlesh Rawat of Fairfield by Marriott, Mumbai. Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake with Thandai, a no-bake dessert that combines the caramelized goodness of Biscoff with the festive essence of thandai. Perfect for celebrations or a special treat, this creamy cheesecake is sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Biscuit Base:
– 300g Lotus Biscoff biscuits
– 110g unsalted butter (melted)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 600g full-fat cream cheese
– 100g icing sugar
– 300ml double cream
– 200g Lotus Biscoff spread (softened)
– 2-3 tbsp Thandai syrup or Thandai powder (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Base
1. Crush the Lotus Biscoff biscuits using a food processor or place
them in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin. The texture should
be fine but slightly crumbly.
2. Melt the butter and mix it with the crushed biscuits until well combined.
3. Line a springform cake tin with parchment paper. Pour the biscuit
mixture into the tin and press down firmly with the back of a spoon to
form an even base.
4. Place the tin in the fridge and let the base set for at least 1 hour
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth and lump-free. Use an electric whisk on medium speed.
- Add the double cream, softened Lotus Biscoff spread, and Thandai syrup/powder to the mixture. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and forms soft peaks.
- Once the filling is thick and creamy, pour it over the chilled biscuit base and spread evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
- Cover the cheesecake with cling film and refrigerate for *at least 4-6 hours*, preferably overnight, for the best texture.
- Once set, remove from the tin and garnish with crushed Biscoff biscuits, a drizzle of melted Biscoff spread, or a sprinkle of Thandai powder
- Slice and serve chilled.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake:
– For a stronger Thandai flavor, increase the quantity of Thandai syrup/powder.
– If you prefer a firmer texture, freeze the cheesecake for an hour
before serving.
– Garnish with chopped nuts like almonds and pistachios for extra crunch.
Enjoy your Lotus Biscoff Thandai Cheesecake, a fusion dessert that blends classic flavors with an Indian twist! No matter how you enjoy it, Thandai is all about flavor, fun, and festivity!
Thandai has transcended generations, retaining its cultural significance, health benefits, and timeless appeal. Whether sipped during Holi, Maha Shivaratri, summer afternoons or as a nostalgic indulgence, each glass carries a sip of India’s rich history and traditions.
So, next time you cool off with Thandai, remember you’re not just drinking a beverage; you’re experiencing centuries of tradition with every sip!
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