Thandai at Raja's shop
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Raja Thandai in Lucknow, a Holi essential

Volume: 19, No: 03 ; March-2025

During the celebration of Holi, the inhabitants of Lucknow gather at Raja ki Thandai, situated near Gol Darwaza in Chowk, to indulge in the finest Thandai available.

The term Thandai is derived from the Hindi word ‘thanda,’ which translates to ‘cool’ or ‘cold.’ This etymology reflects the drink’s nature as a cooling beverage for the body, hence its name. Additionally, Thandai is sometimes known as ‘shardai’ or ‘sardai.’ This traditional drink is especially popular during the festival of Holi, celebrated in the northern regions of India. The primary ingredients of Thandai include a sweetened blend of nuts, seeds, and various spices, which are ground into a paste. This paste is subsequently mixed with milk, resulting in a refreshing drink.

This establishment operates around the clock, providing traditional Thandai both with and without bhang (Bhang is a substance with mind-altering properties that is prepared from the leaves and flower tops of the Indian hemp plant).

For the residents of Lucknow, the festival of Holi would not be complete without Thandai, and the offerings at Raja ki Thandai, located in Chowk close to Gol Darwaza, are truly exceptional. As in previous years, we are prepared to serve our unique Thandai, with patrons beginning to visit our shop two days prior to Holi. On the festival day, throngs of customers gather to enjoy refreshing cold Thandai after partaking in the lively celebrations.

The shop remains open continuously during Holika Dahan, the ritual bonfire lighting at the city’s junction, as well as on the designated day of color festivities. A small glass is priced at Rupees Sixty, while a larger glass is for seventy. Bhang is offered at no additional charge, allowing those who desire it with their Thandai to enjoy it freely. Thandai can be consumed with or without bhang according to individual preference, with bhang being considered a tribute to Lord Shiva.

Customers frequently enhance their Thandai with saffron, fruits, and nuts, opting for natural rose water rather than synthetic flavors. The shop’s owners assert that bhang is less detrimental than alcohol. In Sanskrit, it is referred to as ‘Bijiya,’ a term noted in ancient texts and often employed in traditional folk remedies, particularly in Ayurveda.

Founded in 1936 by Lal Maharaj Tiwari, this establishment gained renown for its Thandai, which was famously enjoyed by India’s inaugural Prime Minister, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, who frequently received it from this shop. The business was relocated from Chowk to its present location at Kasturba Market, across from Santoshi Mata Mandir, and was officially opened by the late Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The establishment has flourished ever since.

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Raja Thandai in Lucknow, a Holi essential

During the celebration of Holi, the inhabitants of Lucknow gather at Raja ki Thandai, situated near Gol Darwaza in Chowk, to indulge in the finest Thandai available.

The term Thandai is derived from the Hindi word ‘thanda,’ which translates to ‘cool’ or ‘cold.’ This etymology reflects the drink’s nature as a cooling beverage for the body, hence its name. Additionally, Thandai is sometimes known as ‘shardai’ or ‘sardai.’ This traditional drink is especially popular during the festival of Holi, celebrated in the northern regions of India. The primary ingredients of Thandai include a sweetened blend of nuts, seeds, and various spices, which are ground into a paste. This paste is subsequently mixed with milk, resulting in a refreshing drink.

This establishment operates around the clock, providing traditional Thandai both with and without bhang (Bhang is a substance with mind-altering properties that is prepared from the leaves and flower tops of the Indian hemp plant).

For the residents of Lucknow, the festival of Holi would not be complete without Thandai, and the offerings at Raja ki Thandai, located in Chowk close to Gol Darwaza, are truly exceptional. As in previous years, we are prepared to serve our unique Thandai, with patrons beginning to visit our shop two days prior to Holi. On the festival day, throngs of customers gather to enjoy refreshing cold Thandai after partaking in the lively celebrations.

The shop remains open continuously during Holika Dahan, the ritual bonfire lighting at the city’s junction, as well as on the designated day of color festivities. A small glass is priced at Rupees Sixty, while a larger glass is for seventy. Bhang is offered at no additional charge, allowing those who desire it with their Thandai to enjoy it freely. Thandai can be consumed with or without bhang according to individual preference, with bhang being considered a tribute to Lord Shiva.

Customers frequently enhance their Thandai with saffron, fruits, and nuts, opting for natural rose water rather than synthetic flavors. The shop’s owners assert that bhang is less detrimental than alcohol. In Sanskrit, it is referred to as ‘Bijiya,’ a term noted in ancient texts and often employed in traditional folk remedies, particularly in Ayurveda.

Founded in 1936 by Lal Maharaj Tiwari, this establishment gained renown for its Thandai, which was famously enjoyed by India’s inaugural Prime Minister, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, who frequently received it from this shop. The business was relocated from Chowk to its present location at Kasturba Market, across from Santoshi Mata Mandir, and was officially opened by the late Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The establishment has flourished ever since.