Have You Tried Banaras Famous Tirangi Barfi? Here's Where to Get it

Banaras is renowned not only for its religious significance but also for its rich food culture. One of the city's most beloved treats is the Tirangi Barfi, a sweet celebrated for its striking three-coloured layers. This barfi is more than just a dessert; it symbolises the city's traditions, creativity, and deep cultural roots. Originally known as Rashtriya Barfi, Banaras' Tirangi Barfi started at a small sweet shop and has since become a famous delicacy enjoyed by people worldwide.

The Story of Banaras Tirangi Barfi: A Legacy from Ram Bhandaar

The original Tirangi Barfi of Banaras, originally called Rashtriya Barfi, was created by Ram Bhandaar, a small sweet shop founded in 1850 by Shri Raghunath Das Gupta, the great-grandfather of the current owner. The shop is located in the old city of Banaras, in an area called Thatheri Bazaar. 

Around 1945, Shri Madan Gopal Gupta, the owner’s grandfather, invented the tri-colour sweet along with others like Jawahar Laddoo, Moti Pak, Madan Mohan, and Gandhi Gaurav, named after the famous freedom fighter. These sweets were created as part of his contribution to India’s freedom struggle. 

The sweets became popular through word of mouth and were even served in British kitchens. It was rumored that local British officials were worried about this food revolution. The Tirangi Barfi became so popular that it inspired other places in India to start making it as well.

The Creation of Rashtriya Barfi

The story of Rashtriya Barfi is closely linked to the patriotic feelings of its time. The colourful layers of the Tirangi Barfi represented the tricolour of the Indian flag, symbolising the country's unity. The layers were made with saffron, white, and green, and carefully arranged to create a unique taste. This sweet was first made for special occasions and celebrations, representing pride and unity.

The Evolution of the Sweet: From Rashtriya Barfi to Tirangi Barfi

Over time, the sweet was renamed Tirangi Barfi. Tirang refers to the three colours of the Indian flag—saffron, white, and green—found in the layers of the sweet. These layers are made from ingredients like milk, sugar, cardamom, and saffron, which give it a unique taste. Although the name changed, the recipe stayed the same, preserving the original flavour and traditional methods.

The Popularity of Tirangi Barfi

As years passed, Tirangi Barfi became a symbol of Banaras culture. It was no longer just a sweet, but an important part of the city's identity. People from all over the world visiting Banaras made sure to try it at Ram Bhandaar. Its popularity grew, and other sweet shops in Varanasi began making their own versions. However, Ram Bhandaar's Tirangi Barfi remained the most famous and loved.

Ingredients and Making of Tirangi Barfi

Making Tirangi Barfi is a skilled process that requires patience and careful techniques.

• Milk: The base of the sweet, boiled and thickened to create a creamy texture.
  
• Sugar: Sweetens the mixture and gives the barfi its delicious taste.
  
• Cardamom: Adds a special aromatic flavour that balances the milk’s richness.
  
• Saffron: Used to make the orange layer, giving the barfi a rich flavor and color.
  
• Pistachio and Coconut: These are often added to improve the taste and texture of the barfi.

The sweet is made by layering these colored mixtures carefully to create the tricolour effect. The saffron layer represents courage and sacrifice, the white layer stands for peace and truth, and the green layer symbolises faith and fertility.

Cultural and Social Importance of Tirangi Barfi

Tirangi Barfi is more than just a sweet; it holds cultural and social value for the people of Varanasi. The sweet is often served during festivals, weddings, and religious events, making it an important part of life in Banaras. The three colours in the barfi make it especially popular during Independence Day (15th August) and Republic Day (26th January) celebrations. It is also enjoyed at family gatherings, festivals, and special occasions, symbolising unity and pride in the city’s history and traditions.

Where to Find Tirangi Barfi in Varanasi: Best Places to Taste the Sweet

There are many places in Varanasi where you can enjoy Tirangi Barfi, but the original Ram Bhandaar is the most famous and authentic place to taste this legendary sweet. This shop, located in the heart of Varanasi, has been serving Tirangi Barfi for over 80 years, sticking to the same traditional recipe and preparation methods.

Ram Bhandaar: Near Dashashwamedh Ghat, Ram Bhandaar is a must-visit for anyone in Varanasi who wants to try the authentic Tirangi Barfi. This family-run shop has been passed down through generations, keeping the original flavours alive. You can enjoy fresh Tirangi Barfi along with other regional sweets offered by the shop.

Kashi Chat Bhandar: A well-known spot in Varanasi, offering a variety of traditional sweets, including Tirangi Barfi.

Chappan Bhandaar: Famous for its fresh sweets, this shop also serves delicious Tirangi Barfi, loved by both locals and tourists.

Sri Kashi Vishwanath Sweet Shop: Located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, this shop offers a range of regional sweets, including Tirangi Barfi.

The history of Banaras Tirangi Barfi is a story of tradition, patriotism, and great taste. From its humble start at Ram Bhandaar, it has become a symbol of Varanasi's rich culture. Tirangi Barfi continues to be loved by people from all walks of life. It's bright colours and delicious flavours not only reflect the spirit of Banaras but also celebrate India’s diverse food traditions.

If you’re visiting Varanasi or want to explore the city’s food culture, trying Tirangi Barfi is a must. Make sure to stop by the famous Ram Bhandaar to taste the original, or visit other sweet shops in the city to try this iconic treat.