As winter settles across North India, sweet shops and street vendors start showcasing a delightful seasonal snack — Revdi. These tiny, crunchy, and mildly sweet sesame seed discs are a staple during winter festivals and a nostalgic treat for many.

What is Revdi?

Revdi (or Rewari) is a traditional Indian sweet made from white sesame seeds, sugar or jaggery, and sometimes flavored with cardamom or rose water. Small, flat, and round, these bite-sized delights are often enjoyed by the handful, especially during Lohri and Makar Sankranti.

Revdi is known for its crisp texture and the delicate sweetness of its sesame-sugar coating. It’s often sold in paper cones or festive boxes and makes for a great snack alongside a cup of hot tea in winter.

Cultural and Seasonal Significance

Revdi holds special significance during Lohri (Punjab) and Makar Sankranti (North & Central India). Just like til-gur, it’s exchanged among friends and family with wishes for warmth, health, and happiness.

In many households, offering revdi and popcorn during Lohri celebrations is a beloved tradition. It’s more than just a snack — it’s a symbol of community, joy, and the seasonal bounty of sesame.

Nutritional Value

While revdi is a sweet treat, its key ingredient — sesame seeds — brings real health benefits. Sesame is rich in:

• Calcium and magnesium (good for bones)

• Healthy fats (supports heart health)

• Antioxidants (boost immunity in winter)

When made with jaggery instead of refined sugar, revdi becomes even more nutritious, offering a more natural source of sweetness and minerals.

Popular Variants

While the classic white sesame-sugar version is most common, some variations include:

• Jaggery Revdi – Made with melted jaggery instead of sugar for a deeper flavor.

• Flavored Revdi – Includes additions like cardamom, rose, or even fennel.

• Dry Fruit Revdi – Embedded with small bits of pistachios or almonds.

Where to Find It

Cities like Agra, Meerut, Lucknow, and Delhi are known for their high-quality revdi. During winter, you’ll find it in local markets, sweet shops, and increasingly through online stores and gourmet Indian snack brands.

If you're traveling through North India in winter, trying fresh, local revdi is a must — especially when it's made in small batches by traditional halwais (sweet makers).

Final Thoughts

Revdi is more than just a seasonal sweet — it's a beloved part of North Indian winter culture. Whether you're enjoying it at a festive bonfire or gifting it during Sankranti, revdi brings warmth, crunch, and sweetness to chilly days.