Holi drinks beyond Thandai: Wellness in every sip

Holi isn’t complete without a refreshing drink, but this year, try something beyond Thandai. Traditional coolers like Pannas, Kanji, and Rose Sharbats are packed with probiotics, antioxidants, and cooling properties. They hydrate, aid digestion, and boost immunity—perfect for balancing festive treats. Here’s why they’re great alternatives this Holi.

Pannas – Cooling and hydrating

Named after the Sanskrit word for drink, Pannas are fruit-based coolers that help beat the heat and keep you refreshed.

Classic Aam Panna – A tangy and sweet green mango cooler rich in vitamin C, aiding digestion and preventing heatstroke. Aam Panna has been a summer staple in Indian households for centuries, known for its ability to replenish lost electrolytes.

Spicy Jaljeera Panna – A zesty take on Aam Panna, infused with roasted cumin and black salt for better digestion and reduced bloating. Jaljeera was historically used as an appetiser to boost metabolism before meals.

Kanji – A natural probiotic

Kanji is a fermented, spiced drink known for its probiotic benefits, helping to improve gut health, boost immunity, and aid digestion.

Traditional black carrot kanji – Made with black carrots, mustard seeds, and salt, this tangy, probiotic drink is a digestive and immunity booster. Kanji traces back to North India, where it was consumed during seasonal transitions to improve gut health.

Beetroot kanji – A vibrant twist on the classic, packed with probiotics, iron, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of beetroot kanji helps improve stamina and supports liver detoxification.

Kanji mojito – A modern take on Kanji with mint and lemon, combining probiotic benefits with a refreshing twist.It’s a gut-friendly cooler with the goodness of traditional fermentation and the zing of a summer mocktail.

Rose coolers – Light and refreshing

Rose-based drinks are known for their cooling properties, making them perfect for Holi’s vibrant, high-energy celebrations.

Rose Lassi – A fragrant, probiotic-rich yogurt drink that soothes digestion and keeps you refreshed. Rose petals are packed with antioxidants and have natural stress-relieving properties.

Sattu Sharbat – A high-protein, cooling summer drink made with roasted gram flour and flavoured with rose essence. Sattu has been a staple energy drink in India for centuries, providing instant hydration and stamina.

Gond Katira Sharbat – A naturally cooling drink made with edible gum, ideal for soothing the body after a day in the sun. Gond Katira is known to regulate body temperature and prevent heat exhaustion.

Bel Ka Sharbat – Made from wood apple pulp, this digestive-friendly drink is packed with fibre and vitamin C. Bel is known in Ayurveda for its ability to aid digestion, reduce acidity, and prevent summer-related ailments.

These refreshing and nourishing alternatives offer a mix of tradition and wellness, keeping you energized and hydrated while you celebrate. Try something new this year and sip on flavours that are as vibrant as the festival itself!