Aayudh Bhanushali, Smita Sable, Yogesh Tripathi and Shubhangi Atre Share Their Favorite Seasonal Drinks!
As winter’s chill embraces the nation, the season awakens a longing for warm, comforting beverages that bring a sense of coziness with every sip. To celebrate this cozy time of year, &TV artists including #AayudhBhanushali (young Atal from Atal), #SmitaSable (Dhaniya from Bheema), Yogesh Tripathi (Daroga Happu Singh from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and #ShubhangiAtre (Angoori Bhabhi from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai) share their favorite winter drinks, each infused with unique flavours and memories that make the season even more special.
Aayudh Bhanushali, who plays young Atal in Atal, says, “Winter reminds me of my grandmother’s special ukado, a Gujarati herbal drink made with ajwain (carom seeds), ginger, black pepper, and jaggery. Not only does it keep me warm, but it’s also a powerful immune booster. Another favourite of mine is kesar shrikhand milk. The richness of saffron combined with the creamy shrikhand creates a velvety indulgence that’s perfect for chilly nights. And of course, I can’t forget my mom’s homemade bajra kanji, a fermented pearl millet drink. It’s a winter staple for me.”
Smita Sable, who portrays Dhaniya in Bheema, adds, “For me, winter isn’t complete without masala chai, a decadent Maharashtrian blend of milk, ginger, sugar, and cardamom. It’s the perfect drink for lazy winter days. I also adore solkadhi, made with coconut milk, tangy kokum, and a hint of spices. The soothing tanginess and subtle warmth make it a perfect match for hearty winter meals. These traditional drinks aren’t just beverages; they transport me back to festive family gatherings, where laughter and love fills the air.” Yogesh Tripathi, known as Daroga Happu Singh from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, shares, “My winter favorite is bajre ki raab, a wholesome drink made with pearl millet flour, jaggery, and ghee. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, bringing back memories of cold nights in my hometown. Since moving to Mumbai, I’ve developed a fondness for hot chocolate. Served with cream on top, it’s a favorite treat of mine and my kids. Sharing these moments with them makes every sip even more special.”
Shubhangi Atre, the beloved Angoori Bhabhi of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, says, “Winter is the perfect time to blend tradition with a modern twist. My go-to is garam masala chai, a spiced tea that feels like a warm hug. Coming from Indore, I also enjoy nimbu shikanji (warm lemon and honey water) during the season; it keeps me refreshed. My daughter’s love for experimenting introduced me to mulled pumpkin spice latte, which has become a family favourite for cozy evenings. To add an Indori touch to winter nights, I prepare warm dry fruit milk—a nutty delight that combines tradition with indulgence.”
Watch Atal at 8:00 pm, Bheema at 8:30 pm, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10:00 pm, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 pm, airing every Monday to Friday on &TV.
By Keerti Kadam