Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi festival, is a cherished festival in India that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Typically observed in August, Raksha Bandhan 2024 will be observed on Monday, August 19. As you celebrate Raksha Bandhan 2024, we at LatestLY have compiled a collection of popular sweets commonly enjoyed during the festival. These delicious mithais are perfect to go in rakhi thali as well as enjoyed later during Raksha Bandhan special lunches and dinners. From Kaju Katli Lotus to Chocolate Laddoos, This Rakhi Makes Irresistible Sweets and Desserts at Home.

Raksha Bandhan involves sisters tying a protective thread, known as a Rakhi, around their brother's wrists. This ritual symbolises the sister’s love and prayers for her brother's well-being and the brother’s promise to protect and support his sister throughout her life. The day is marked by family gatherings, where brothers and sisters exchange gifts and sweets, reinforcing their close bond and mutual affection. To celebrate Raksha Bandhan, various sweet dishes are prepared to mark the occasion.

1. Rasgulla: Soft and spongy cheese balls soaked in a light sugar syrup, rasgulla is a classic Bengali sweet that adds a refreshing and sweet touch to the Raksha Bandhan festivities.

Rasgulla (Photo Credits: Wikimedia Commons)

2. Gulab Jamun: These deep-fried dough balls, made from khoya (milk solids) and soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup, are a favourite for their rich flavour and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Gulab Jamun (Photo Credits: Wikimedia Commons)

3. Barfi: A popular Indian sweet made from condensed milk, sugar, and various flavourings such as cardamom, nuts, or fruit. Variations like Kaju Barfi (made with cashew nuts) and Pista Barfi (made with pistachios) are especially enjoyed during festive occasions.

Moong Daal Barfi (Photo Credits: Wikimedia Commons)

4. Ladoo: These round sweets come in various forms, including Besan Ladoo (made from gram flour, ghee, and sugar) and Rava Ladoo (made from semolina). They are typically flavoured with cardamom and garnished with nuts.

Motichur Laddu (Photo Credits: Wikimedia Commons)

5. Jalebi: Jalebi is a popular mithai that is highly in demand at festivals in India. The crispy jalebis dipped in sugary syrup are made with maida (All-purpose flour) batter fried and dipped in rich sugar syrup. If you want to experience heaven on earth, pair crunchy-sugar jalebi with rabdi (condensed sweet milk), and you are good to go!

Jalebi (Photo Credits: Wikimedia Commons)

Bonus Sweet Item! Kheer: A creamy rice pudding made with milk and sugar and flavoured with cardamom and nuts. Kheer is often garnished with saffron or dried fruits, making it a comforting and festive dessert.

Kheer (Photo Credits: Wikimedia Commons)

These sweet dishes not only enhance the celebratory mood of Raksha Bandhan but also symbolise the joy and togetherness of the festival. Wishing everyone a Happy Raksha Bandhan 2024!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 19, 2024 02:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).