Batasha

T he term sugar candy spits up images of brightly-hued hard lollipops wrapped in glittery foils or cling film. Yet, this indulgent treat is not a 21st-century innovation but has been a part of the Indian food culture for ages. 

Batasha, for instance, is the traditional hard candy habitually served as a sweet offering to Hindu deities during religious ceremonies. Made from sugar or jaggery, water, and sodium bicarbonate, Batasha is an amber-coloured small disc with a hard, crunchy exterior and a perforated, crumbly interior. It is said that Batashas have been around since the Vedic ages when it was known as "khanda" or "sharkara." It was made by boiling sugar and water together until it reached a certain temperature and was then shaped into small balls. This sweet was often used as a form of currency and was a valuable commodity.

During the Mughal Empire in India, the popularity of this candy skyrocketed. The Mughal Emperors were known for their love of paan or stuffed betel leaves, and Batasha was often served alongside paan to help cleanse the palate. It was even used as a form of payment to soldiers.

The word "Batasha" comes from the Sanskrit word "Bhadashringa," which means "full of life." This is because Batasha was believed to be a revitalising and energising candy that could boost a person's energy levels and improve their overall health. Much like Palm sugar candy, Batasha is also considered to have health properties. It is said to be a natural remedy for sore throats and coughs and is believed to help improve digestion and boost energy levels. Further, Batasha is often consumed with puffed rice and water to cure an upset stomach. While there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, Batasha remains a beloved treat in Bengali households. 

Making Batasha is a simple process that involves boiling sugar and water together until it reaches a certain temperature. The mixture is then poured in spoonfuls on baking paper and left to cool and harden. Once the candy is fully formed, it is ready to eat.