Nostalgic Sweets: A Journey Through Time

For many of us, sweet candies are not only a source of pleasure but a connection to our past. These treasured treats bring back memories of a simpler time and evoke a sense of nostalgia. In this article, we will explore some of the classic sweets from the past decade that have stood the test of time, and how they have become a part of our lives again.

Classic Sweets of yesteryears

While some might argue that retro sweets have experienced a revival in recent years, there are some candies that have been around for ages and remain loved by everyone. From the traditional Jalebi, Simple Bar, and Carrot Halwa, to Semolina Halwa, these sweets are deeply ingrained in our cultural heritage and continue to be enjoyed today.

Jalebi: Jalebi, a delightful Indian dessert made from a batter that's often folded and fried, then soaked in sugar syrup, is a favorite among many. Simple but delicious, it's a treat that never fails to make one’s heart sing. Barfi: Also known as Indian fudge, Barfi is soft and creamy, with a range of flavors like chocolate, coconut, and almond. Kids and adults alike can't get enough of these sweet indulgences. Carrot Halwa: A popular dessert, carrot halwa is a sweet pudding-like dish that combines the earthy flavors of grated carrots with nuts and sugar. It's a comforting and satisfying treat. Semolina Halwa: Semolina halwa, a popular dessert, is made by simmering semolina with sugar and ghee, resulting in a sticky, sweet, and flavorful dessert. It's often served at special occasions and religious festivals.

Comforting Old-Fashioned Sweets

Even though they may not fit the strict definition of retro, some sweets have a special place in our hearts due to their enduring appeal. Ice cream sundaes, banana pudding, and butter cookies are classic treats that are simple yet irreplaceable. These old-fashioned sweets evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminiscent of my childhood in the early 1970s.

A Childhood Filled with Sweets

During my childhood in the early 1970s, there were certain sweets that filled my days with joy and memories. One such treat was the egg-shaped sugar candies that were shaped like eggs. They were a marvel to fill one’s mouth and would take a long time to dissolve, leading to many after-school chats and stories.

These candies were readily available in local shops and bakeries. At that time, eggs-shaped candies cost just 25 paise each, with 1 Re being 100 paise. And then there were the red lollipops sold in the school canteen, each costing only 10 paise. Now, our tongues would stay red for quite some time after eating them in the morning break. Unfortunately, these spherical lollipops are no longer available in the market.

Modern Retro Candies

While some of these old favorites remain, there are several modern retro candies that have become a part of my collection. I still have a few Chiko Sticks and Harters Jolly Ranchers to name a few. Other popular retro candies include Lotte Lipstick Candies, which are hard candies that are sour and sweet, available in strawberry and orange flavors. They are known for their attractive packaging and can still be found in some stores.

Lotte Lipstick Candy: These are hard candies that last a long time in your mouth. They come in two flavors – Strawberry and Orange – and they taste sour but sweet. They cost around 15–20 paise. The packaging is particularly appealing to children, with bright colors and designs. Chiko Sticks: These are colorful, hard candies that can be pulled apart to reveal a sweet center. They were very popular in the past and still evoke a sense of nostalgia today. Harters Jolly Ranchers: These are similar to Chiko Sticks but with a twist of sour flavors. They are perfect for a bit of a daring sweetness experience. Totaly Roll Pops: Another classic retro candy, Totaly Roll Pops are hard lollipops that can be rolled around to enjoy different flavors.

Unforgettable Halloween Memories

Apart from the traditional sweets, there were also some Halloween candies that made a significant impact. These candies were not only fun to eat, but they also carried with them a sense of adventure and excitement. One of the most memorable were the candies that included small pieces of Halloween-themed wax, such as skulls, skeletons, and mummies. These candies were filled with sugar syrup and each bite would reveal a colored syrup that would resemble blood. A memorable part of the Halloween experience was playing with the remaining wax, turning it into candles or other creative shapes.

One of the most thrilling moments of those Halloween nights was when my sister and I were caught cooking up a batch of Halloween wax in the kitchen. The kitchen fire got out of control and set the curtains on fire. Thankfully, we were quick to act, using the fire extinguisher that my dad always kept nearby. However, the curtains were scorched, and we had to pay the price for our mischievous adventure.

While the fire incident brought tears to our eyes, these Halloween memories remain etched in our hearts, symbolizing the excitement and joy of childhood adventures.

Conclusion

These sweets are more than just a taste; they are a journey through time, carrying with them memories of different eras. The joy and nostalgia associated with these retro candies make them timeless treasures, and we look forward to sharing these sweet morsels with future generations.

From traditional sweets to modern retro candies, there is something for everyone to relive the past and create new memories. So the next time you bite into a treat, take a moment to savor the memories it evokes and the joy it brings.