Remember the simple joys of childhood? This article takes you on a nostalgic journey back to the ’80s and ’90s, reminiscing about the candies and drinks that defined our growing-up years. From the tangy Fatafat to the iconic Rasna, these treats evoke a sense of warmth and bring back cherished memories of simpler times.
Nostalgia is such a powerful emotion that it can transport us back in time, evoking vivid memories and feelings associated with our past experiences. This bittersweet sentiment often arises from familiar scents, songs, photographs, and even food, triggering a deep sense of longing for the moments we cherish.
While nostalgia can sometimes bring a tinge of sadness for what has been lost, it also has the remarkable ability to foster feelings of warmth and comfort, reinforcing our sense of identity and belonging.
Here are some forgotten things from yesteryears that will most certainly bring back nostalgia to the 80s and 90s kids.
1. Rasna
Remember how we all would wait for the summer holidays, because it meant having Rasna, if not every day, then at least every other day? The drink’s unique fruit flavours, particularly the beloved orange and mango, not only quenched thirst but also invoke memories of carefree childhood moments spent with friends and family.
2. Uncle Chips
Bole Mere Lips, I Love Uncle Chips! Just writing this is taking us back to the deliciousness that these chips brought. The brand’s unique flavours and crinkly texture made it a favourite among children, often enjoyed during playdates or family gatherings.
3. Fatafat
While these small black tangy and spicy Ayurvedic digestive candy were meant to be consumed in moderation, we would finish an entire packet in just one sitting. Fatafat was a beloved treat that combined flavours of glucose, rock salt, ajwain, and cumin, making it a unique snack that delighted the taste buds.
4. Poppins
Known for its rainbow of colours and assorted fruit flavours like orange, mango, and blackcurrant, each candy was a bite-sized burst of joy. What stood out distinctly was the colourful packing. The fun was always in getting the flavour that we wanted.
5. Phantom Cigarette Candy
What fun we used to have with Phantom Cigarettes – we would love to place these cigarettes between our lips and pretend like we were smoking. It suddenly made us all seem so cool, and that feeling was thrilling. Phantom cigarettes were designed to resemble real cigarettes, complete with a striking red and white packaging that made them irresistible to us.
6. Coffee Bite
The only coffee we were allowed to have as children. The taste of coffee still lingers when we close our eyes and think about it. Known for its unique blend of rich coffee and creamy toffee is what created an addictive taste experience. The iconic tagline “Coffee! Toffee!” became a cultural reference, sparking playful debates among fans about their preference between the two flavours.
7. Big Fun
Perhaps the first taste of bubble gum that the 80’s kid got was from Big Fun. What made it even more amazing was the cricket stickers that came with it, often featuring stars like Kapil Dev, Brian Lara and Sachin Tendulkar.
8. Pan Pasand
You either loved this one or hated it. Its distinct flavour, reminiscent of the traditional Indian paan, allowed us, kids, to indulge in a taste that felt both exotic and grown-up, often leaving a delightful red stain on our tongues. What also caught our eye was the bright red cover of this candy.
9. Goldspot
Before the Pepsis and Coca-Colas of the world were available for our generation, we had our OGs – Goldspot, Citra and, even now present, Thumbs Up. Bolder flavours, stronger memories, and their unforgettable taste make them remain in our memories even now.
10. Complan
I’m a Complan Boy! I’m a Complan Girl. One distinct memory that we all carry might be of either drinking Complan before going to school or after coming back from it.
What are your favourite childhood memories of candies and drinks that bring back the most nostalgia? Share your memories in the comments.
