New Delhi: There’s something magical about Holi — the vibrant festival of colours that brings with it laughter, joy, and the irresistible aroma of festive treats. Among the many delicacies that make this celebration so special, Thandai has a charm of its own. This cooling, nutty-spiced drink is not just a recipe; it’s an experience deeply rooted in India’s festive traditions. Prepared with milk, dry fruits, and aromatic spices, thandai perfectly complements the colourful chaos of Holi. As we gear up for Holi 2026, let’s rediscover this classic beverage that adds both sweetness and nostalgia to our celebrations.
If you’ve ever wondered why Holi feels incomplete without a sip of thandai, it’s because this drink holds a place in every Indian household that celebrates the festival. It balances the spice of festive snacks and the playfulness of colours with its soothing, refreshing taste. Whether enjoyed chilled with friends or served as a ritual after playing Holi, thandai captures the spirit of togetherness that defines the festival. Here’s how you can make this traditional thandai recipe for Holi 2026 at home.
What is Thandai and its significance in Holi
Thandai is a North Indian festive drink made with milk, nuts, seeds, and fragrant spices like cardamom and saffron. In Holi celebrations, thandai represents the essence of refreshment and joy, traditionally enjoyed to beat the heat and restore energy after playing with colours. Its origins trace back to ancient India, where it was also associated with celebrations honouring Lord Shiva.
Ingredients for traditional thandai
1 litre full-fat milk
½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons melon seeds (magaz)
10–12 almonds
10 cashew nuts
10 pistachios
2 tablespoons poppy seeds (khus khus)
1 tablespoon fennel seeds (saunf)
8–10 black peppercorns
5–6 green cardamoms
8–10 rose petals (dried or fresh)
A few strands of saffron
Ice cubes for serving
Easy quick Thandai recipe
1. In a bowl, soak almonds, cashews, pistachios, melon seeds, poppy seeds, fennel seeds, black pepper, cardamoms, and rose petals in half a cup of water for at least 6 hours (or overnight for best results).
2. Drain the soaked ingredients and grind them into a fine paste using a little water to achieve a creamy consistency.
3. In a deep pan, bring the milk to a gentle boil, reduce the flame, and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes. Stir in the sugar and mix until dissolved.
4. Add a few strands of saffron to the milk and let its golden colour infuse. Remove the milk from the flame and allow it to cool.
5. Once cooled, mix the thandai paste into the milk and stir well. Strain the mixture through a muslin cloth or fine sieve to remove coarse bits.
6. Refrigerate the drink for 2–3 hours. Pour into tall glasses, top with ice cubes, and garnish with crushed pistachios or rose petals before serving.
As the colours of Holi 2026 fill the air, a glass of traditional thandai adds the perfect finishing touch to your celebration. Refreshing, aromatic, and full of festive spirit — this age-old drink connects generations and spreads joy, one sip at a time.
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