Capital families keep tradition alive with lassi in summer

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 29th May, 2026) As temperatures continue to rise in the Federal capital, many families are turning to traditional homemade lassi to stay cool, keeping alive a cultural practice that has been passed down through generations.

The simple glass of homemade lassi continues to offer not only relief from the weather but also a reminder of enduring family traditions in the capital.

Despite the growing popularity of cafés, cold coffees, and imported beverages, lassi remains a preferred summer drink in many households across the federal and nearby areas. Prepared with yogurt, water, sugar or salt, the traditional drink continues to be valued for its taste, nutritional benefits, and connection to local culture.

Talking to APP, Saeeda, a housewife and resident of Sector G-7, said that in her home, summer lunch feels incomplete without a glass of lassi. She said it brought a sense of coolness and refreshment during hot summer days and helps protect against the scorching heatwave.

She added that she had been drinking traditional lassi since childhood, and even after marriage, this age-old drink continued to remain an essential part of her family’s daily routine, enjoyed and preferred by people of all age groups.

"While children may enjoy soft drinks outside, homemade lassi remains the first choice in their household because it is fresh, natural, and healthier compared to packaged beverages," she added.

Elderly residents said lassi had long been associated with hospitality and family gatherings in Pakistani society. Many believe the drink represented simplicity and tradition in an increasingly modern lifestyle.

In conversation with APP, Sadiq, a retired government officer living in Sector G-8, said that serving lassi to guests during summer had long been part of local traditions and cultural hospitality. He said since his childhood he observed his elders to welcome visitors with chilled lassi, a gesture considered a symbol of respect and warmth in many households.

He recalled that the traditional drink always brought a feeling of joy, freshness, and togetherness during the hot summer season. Despite changing lifestyles and the growing popularity of packaged beverages, the trend of drinking lassi is still alive and continues to win the hearts of the younger generation as well.

Health experts have also encouraged the consumption of homemade drinks during extreme weather conditions, particularly during the ongoing summer season.

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Talking to APP, Dr. Sana, a nutrition specialist, said that drinking traditional lassi carried several health benefits. She explained that lassi helped maintain hydration and improved digestion during hot weather while also provide relief from the heatwave effects. She added that homemade lassi contained less artificial ingredients and preservatives compared to many commercially prepared beverages.

Dr. Sana noted that lassi prepared with fresh yogurt and balanced sugar levels offers natural cooling effects and serves as a healthy energy booster during intense heat. She further said that traditional drinks not only help the body stay cool but also provide essential nutrients beneficial for overall health.

"Traditional homemade beverages were often much healthier alternatives to sugary soft drinks and carbonated beverages," she added.

Younger people, however, acknowledge that café culture and social media trends are rapidly influencing beverage choices among the youth, yet they admit that traditional lassi still continues to rule in homes.

Talking to APP, Areeba, a university student residing in Barakahu, said that flavored coffees, shakes, and bubble teas were becoming increasingly popular among the youth, especially due to the growing café culture and social media trends.

She said young people enjoyed trying modern drinks with friends at cafés and restaurants; however, traditional lassi still held a special place at home. According to her, parents continued to prefer serving homemade lassi because it felt more natural, refreshing, and healthier compared to many commercial beverages.

She added that despite changing lifestyles and food trends, traditional drinks like lassi remained closely connected with family values and cultural traditions.

Local food vendors also reported strong demand for lassi during summer months, particularly during day time when temperature is at peak. Several restaurants have also introduced flavored versions of lassi to attract younger customers while maintaining traditional recipes.

Food experts believed the continued popularity of homemade lassi reflected the strong cultural attachment many families still had with traditional foods and drinks.

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