by Soniya Basu | Jun 26, 2025 | Social Trends
If you’ve spent any time on Instagram lately, you’ve likely seen the buzz around Labubu dolls — quirky, wide-eyed figures with oversized heads and mischievous grins. They’ve become a collector’s craze, especially among Gen Z and pop-culture enthusiasts in Asia. But while Labubu might be trending, India has its own rich traditional Indian dolls — handcrafted, meaningful, and rooted in centuries of tradition.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate what’s going viral, and then deep-dive into 10 traditional Indian dolls that are just as — if not more — enchanting.
What is Labubu and Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
Labubu is a character designed by Hong Kong-based toy brand POP MART, known for its line of collectible vinyl art toys. Labubu, with its iconic fanged smile, mischievous eyes, and plush hooded outfits, is part of the The Monsters series by artist Kasing Lung.
Why it’s trending:
- Blind Box Culture: Each toy is sold in mystery boxes, creating excitement and FOMO.
- Limited Editions: Exclusive seasonal or region-based releases.
- Display Aesthetic: Labubu fits perfectly into the “shelfie” and desk-decor trends on Instagram and Pinterest.
- Kawaii Appeal: Labubu’s odd-cute look strikes a balance between creepy and adorable — a big hit in Asian toy markets.
But while Labubu toys are turning heads for their style, India’s dolls deserve admiration for their soul.
10 Traditional Indian Dolls That Are Worth Collecting
1. Channapatna Dolls – Karnataka
Originating from the town of Channapatna, these wooden dolls are made using soft ivory wood and colored with natural, non-toxic dyes. They’re polished to a smooth, lacquered finish and are completely safe for children. Recognised with a GI tag, Channapatna dolls are a blend of craftsmanship and sustainability.
2. Kathputli Puppets – Rajasthan
These traditional Rajasthani puppets are made of wood, cloth, and string. Known for their dramatic expressions and vibrant costumes, they’ve been used in village performances to narrate folktales and moral stories for centuries.
3. Natungram Dolls – West Bengal
Hand-carved in the village of Natungram, these wooden owl dolls are painted in bright reds, yellows, and greens. In Bengali culture, owls are seen as lucky and are closely linked with goddess Lakshmi. These dolls carry symbolic meaning and are a legacy of rural craftsmanship.
4. Batto Bai & Jhabua Dolls – Madhya Pradesh
Made using fabric, paper, and thread, these dolls depict tribal characters, deities, and daily life. The Batto Bai dolls are named after a legendary craftswoman, while Jhabua dolls often represent Bhil and Bhilala traditions. They preserve tribal identities and promote artisan-led storytelling.
You can explore similar tribal artistry at Tribes India.
5. Thaki Dolls – Maharashtra
Thaki dolls are handmade from cotton fabric and filled with wool or scrap cloth. Their painted faces and traditional sarees reflect the rural women of Maharashtra, bringing simple village life into artistic form. Each doll is unique, eco-conscious, and celebrates womanhood.
6. Orian Wooden Toys & Puri Clay Dolls – Odisha
Sonpur’s Orian dolls are carved from wood and painted in folk styles, while Puri’s clay dolls depict gods like Jagannath and Subhadra. Both crafts are seasonal, linked to temple festivals and rituals.They bridge folk art with religious tradition.
7. Asharikandi Terracotta Toys – Assam
From Assam’s “Terracotta Craft Village,” these reddish-orange clay toys include the famous Hatima Putul (mother figure with elephant-like ears). Made by the Namasudra community, these toys are deeply symbolic and sculpted by hand.
8. Kondapalli Toys – Andhra Pradesh
These wooden dolls are a highlight during Navratri in Andhra homes. Crafted from a softwood called Tella Poniki, the dolls depict gods, rural scenes, and local legends. They hold a GI tag and are painted in bold folk colors.
9. Varanasi Wooden Toys – Uttar Pradesh
Crafted in Varanasi and Mirzapur, these dolls are made without joints or nails. Each toy is painted b y hand and often features mythological figures, dancers, or musicians — a testament to Varanasi’s artistic soul.
10. Pavala Bommai (Dancing Dolls) – Tamil Nadu
These rocking dolls are traditionally made from clay or papier-mâché and are a staple in South Indian households during festivals like Navaratri Golu. Their movement is gentle, symbolizing balance and rhythm in life.
While Labubu wins on design and collectible value, India’s dolls bring something deeper — handmade stories, cultural memory, and soulful artistry. Supporting these crafts isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about sustaining India’s rich craft economy and keeping folk traditions alive.
🧵 Looking for more culturally inspired stories?
Explore more heritage-rich articles in our Culture & Lifestyle section.
by Soniya Basu | Jun 24, 2025 | Social Trends
Matcha has quickly become a global sensation, found in everything from lattes to desserts, skincare products to smoothie bowls. But what is matcha, and why has it seen such a meteoric rise in popularity? This article explores the origins of matcha, why it’s trending, how to use it in daily life, and the health benefits that have people raving.
What is Matcha?
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves. Its roots trace back to 12th-century Japan, where Zen Buddhist monks used it to stay alert and focused during meditation. The traditional Japanese tea ceremony, known as chanoyu, elevates matcha preparation into an art form—a ritual of precision, calm, and mindfulness.
Why Matcha is Trending Now
Health Benefits: Packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG, matcha is celebrated for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
Clean Caffeine: Unlike coffee, matcha provides a slow-release caffeine boost that helps prevent crashes and jitters. L-theanine, an amino acid found in matcha, promotes calm alertness.
Instagrammable Aesthetic: Its vibrant green color makes it a star in social media food trends.
Versatility: From beverages and baked goods to savory dishes and skincare, matcha’s applications are diverse and appealing.
Cultural Fascination: A growing interest in East Asian wellness traditions has positioned matcha as a symbol of holistic, healthy living.
How to Use Matcha in Everyday Life
Traditional Method: Whisk 1–2 teaspoons of matcha powder with hot (not boiling) water using a bamboo whisk (chasen) until it’s frothy. For ceremonial-grade matcha, visit Matcha.com.
Matcha Latte: Mix matcha with a bit of hot water, then add steamed milk (dairy or plant-based) and sweeten to taste.Try this vegan matcha latte recipe.
Smoothies: Add 1 teaspoon of matcha powder to your morning smoothie for a nutritious energy lift.
Baking: Incorporate matcha into cookies, cakes, and muffins for a distinct flavor and vibrant color. Discover great matcha dessert ideas on Just One Cookbook.
Skincare: Matcha is increasingly featured in face masks and scrubs for its detoxifying and anti-aging benefits.
Matcha is more than just a trend. With a rich cultural background, numerous health advantages, and a unique flavour profile, it has cemented its place in the global wellness scene. Whether you’re sipping a matcha latte or experimenting with matcha recipes at home, this ancient green powder continues to offer both flavor and function to modern living.
by Soniya Basu | Jun 24, 2025 | Food Review
Nestled in the vibrant Haymarket district of Edinburgh, CUPP offers a modern twist on the increasingly popular boba/bubble tea trend. On a bustling Friday night, June 20th, ScottishIndian dropped by to explore not only their colourful beverage offerings but also their hot food menu. Here’s an honest breakdown of my experience, including the highlights and a few disappointments.This CUPP Haymarket Edinburgh review explores what to expect on a typical Friday night, from boba tea to hot food.
Get a Free Coffee Before you go, here’s a little bonus: use this referral link to grab yourself a free coffee. A small perk to make your visit even better!
CUPP is a UK-based boba tea brand that prides itself on serving authentic Taiwanese boba and bubble tea with high-quality ingredients. Known for its sleek branding and bold flavours, CUPP has been expanding across the UK, becoming a go-to spot for boba lovers. Its Haymarket location combines quick service with a casual dine-in vibe, appealing to both loyal fans and curious newcomers.
The Haymarket branch of CUPP immediately stands out with its clean, minimalist decor and relaxed seating arrangement. The atmosphere was welcoming and casual, ideal for a quick evening treat. Staff greeted us promptly and handled orders efficiently, which is always a plus on a busy night in the city. CUPP is a UK-based bubble tea brand offering a range of drinks from traditional milk teas to seasonal specials.
CUPP is, first and foremost, a bubble tea destination. Their drinks menu is vast, ranging from traditional milk teas to fruity infusions and seasonal specials. I opted for two drinks to get a full sense of their offerings:
- Dragon Fruit with Lychee Popping Boba (£6.40): Visually stunning with a deep pink hue, this drink was as refreshing as it looked. The dragon fruit flavour was natural and not overly sweet, while the lychee popping boba added a fun, juicy burst with every sip. It was the perfect choice for a warm summer evening.
- Matcha Strawberry with Boba Pearls: I was pleasantly surprised by this drink. The matcha didn’t have the overpowering grassy flavour that often deters newcomers. Paired with a sweet strawberry base and classic chewy tapioca pearls, the drink was both balanced and indulgent. A creative take on traditional matcha that even casual fans would enjoy.
The Food: Chicken Yakitori Rice Bowl Combo (£11.50) Curious about CUPP’s foray into hot food, I chose the chicken yakitori rice bowl as part of a combo with the matcha strawberry tea. Unfortunately, this part of the experience fell short. The portion was generous and visually appealing, but the taste didn’t match the presentation. The rice was hard and slightly undercooked, and the chicken skewers were overly dry and tough to chew. While it looked promising, the texture and seasoning left a lot to be desired.
Want more reviews like this? Subscribe to our Newsletter to stay updated on the best eats in the UK.
Price-wise, the drinks were on par with other premium bubble tea spots in Edinburgh. £6.40 for a specialty drink is expected in today’s market, especially considering the quality of ingredients and customisations available. However, the combo at £11.50 didn’t quite deliver in terms of food satisfaction. The drinks justify their cost, but the rice bowl would need significant improvements to be considered good value. If you’re coming just for bubble tea, CUPP still holds its ground as a worthwhile destination.
Final thoughts? This CUPP Haymarket review finds that while the drinks shine, the food menu still needs refining to match.
by Soniya Basu | Jun 16, 2025 | caf
Lannan Bakery in Edinburgh has gone viral. Again. If you haven’t seen the flaky pastries and beautifully lit interiors on your feed, are you even on Instagram?
But behind the croissants and filters, there’s more brewing. A long queue of eager customers is now causing safety concerns for local school children—yes, really. Parents from a nearby primary school have raised alarm bells: the queue is so long, it spills onto the street, pushing kids off the pavements during morning drop-off.
So now the bakery has… wait for it… hired a “queue bouncer.”
Only in Scotland, right?
The Rise of Lannan Bakery in Edinburgh: A Viral Success Story
Lannan’s rise has all the ingredients of a Gen Z love story:
- Minimalist branding
- Pastries that crack on camera
- Coffee cups that double as props
- A location in the heart of Edinburgh’s Instagram aesthetic zone
It’s everything social media wants. Naturally, the crowds followed.
But here’s the twist: as Edinburgh’s food scene glows up, it’s also starting to show signs of what big cities know all too well—buzz without boundaries.
If you haven’t seen the flaky pastries and beautifully lit interiors on your feed, check out Lannan’s official Instagram to understand the hype.
From Queues to Community: When Virality Affects Everyday Life
Let’s keep it real: nobody is anti-pastry. But when a queue disrupts school commutes, we’ve got a problem. The ScottishIndian community, known for strong family and safety values, understands this tension well—supporting small businesses, but also expecting responsibility.
It raises a bigger question: Can hype and heritage co-exist?
Worth the Wait? A Real Look at Edinburgh’s Most Hyped Pastry Spot
Lannan’s menu changes seasonally but always keeps a strong lineup of beautifully laminated pastries. Think: cardamom buns, almond croissants, and pain suisse with a cult following. On some days, you’ll find savoury delights like cheese and mustard scrolls or tomato galettes. The coffee is top-tier, but for our Desi readers—chai isn’t on the menu (yet!). If you’re hoping for something sweet, flaky, and photographable, Lannan doesn’t disappoint. Just don’t expect a full brunch menu—it’s grab-and-go, not sit-and-savour.
Lannan’s pastries look—and according to fans, taste—amazing. But if you’re travelling from Glasgow, Leith, or even London, here’s our honest checklist before you go:
- 🕗 Arrive before 8:45 AM or risk watching it all sell out.
- 🧃 Bring your own chai (they’re not Desi-drink ready yet).
- 🧭 Consider going midweek to avoid “influencer peak hours.”
But if it’s a no-go, don’t stress. Edinburgh is full of underrated Desi-owned cafés serving cardamom-spiced chai, samosas, and almond biscuits. And no one’s getting pushed off the kerb.
Lannan Bakery is a vibe. But it also shows how quickly things can snowball when internet fame meets real-life community space. As ScottishIndians, we love local success—but also value mindful progress.
So sure, snap that pastry. Post the reel. But let’s keep our feet on the pavement—and our hearts in the community.
Looking for more food stories from across Scotland? Head to our Food & Culture section for hidden gems, Desi favourites, and viral spots.
by Soniya Basu | May 27, 2025 | Restaurants, Spotlights
Edinburgh’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, and for those who love variety, buffets offer the perfect dining experience. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or just someone who enjoys a good meal, here’s our curated list of the top 5 buffets in Edinburgh, complete with timings, estimated costs, and available discounts.
1. COSMO Edinburgh – A Global Culinary Adventure
Located in the Omni Centre, COSMO offers an extensive range of over 150 dishes from around the world, including Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and British cuisines. Their live cooking stations and chocolate fountain add an interactive element to your dining experience.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Monday – Thursday: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM | £20.99
- Friday: 12:30 PM – 10:00 PM | £22.99
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £23.99
- Sunday & Bank Holidays: 12:30 PM – 9:30 PM | £22.99
Children under 155cm are charged at a reduced rate.
Discounts:
- Free Birthday Meal: Celebrate your birthday with a free meal when dining with at least 3 full-paying adults. Valid on your birthday or within 7 days before or after. Available Sunday to Friday. Advance online booking required with “Free Birthday Meal” noted in special requests. Proof of date of birth required.
- 10% Off: Available for students, NHS staff, emergency services, and armed forces personnel.
cosmoedinburgh.co.uk
📍 COSMO Edinburgh
2. Mr Basrai’s World Cuisines – A Fusion Feast
Situated in Fountainbridge, Mr Basrai’s offers a vibrant atmosphere with a diverse menu that includes Indian curries, Italian pastas, Chinese stir-fries, and more. Their live grill stations and dessert bar make it a perfect spot for group outings.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Lunch:
- Monday – Thursday: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | £15.99
- Friday: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | £16.99
- Saturday: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM | £17.99
- Sunday & Bank Holidays: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | £22.99
- Dinner:
- Monday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM | £21.99
- Friday & Saturday: 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM | £22.99
- Sunday & Bank Holidays: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £22.99
Tableagent.com
Children 10 and under eat at half price; children aged 1 to 3 eat for £5.
Discounts:
- Free Birthday Meal: Enjoy a free meal on your birthday when dining with a group of 5 or more. Valid from 3 days before to 3 days after your birthday. Available Sunday to Friday. Proof of date of birth required.
- 15% Off: For students with valid ID, available Sunday to Friday.
- 10% Off: For NHS staff, emergency services, and armed forces personnel with valid ID, available Sunday to Friday.
omniedinburgh.co.uk
📍 Mr Basrai’s Edinburgh
3. China Red – Oriental Delights
Nestled on Grindlay Street, China Red boasts over 100 oriental dishes, from dim sum to sushi. The modern decor and spacious seating make it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and evening gatherings.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday:
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | £16.99
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £20.99
- Friday:
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | £17.99
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £21.49
- Saturday:
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | £17.99
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £22.99
- Sunday & Bank Holidays:
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM | £18.99
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | £22.99
Children under 11 are charged at a reduced rate.
Discounts:
- Kids Eat for £1: From May 25 to June 29, 2025, one adult main entitles you to one children’s main for £1. Offer not available on Saturdays.
📍 China Red Edinburgh
4. Beijing Banquet – Authentic Chinese Experience
Located in Sighthill, Beijing Banquet is renowned for its authentic Chinese cuisine. The buffet features a wide range of dishes, including crispy duck, sweet and sour chicken, and a selection of dim sum.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Monday – Saturday:
- Lunch: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM | £17.99 (Mon–Thu), £18.99 (Fri–Sat)
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM | £21.99 (Mon–Thu), £23.99 (Fri–Sat)
- Sunday & Bank Holidays:
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM | £18.99
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM | £23.99
Discounts:
- Birthday Spin the Wheel: Celebrate your birthday with a special spin-the-wheel offer on the day. One spin per birthday person.
- Check out their special Fathers’ Day Menu, special prices apply 15 June 2025.
📍 Beijing Banquet Sighthill
5. Yes Sushi – Japanese Buffet Bliss
For sushi enthusiasts, Yes Sushi on Hanover Street offers an all-you-can-eat buffet that includes a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and Japanese hot dishes. The contemporary setting and fresh ingredients make it a popular choice among young diners.
Opening Hours & Prices:
- Monday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Closed on Tuesdays
All-you-can-eat sushi and hotpot options are available, with prices around £17.99 per person.
Discounts:
- Birthday Discount: Enjoy a birthday discount on your special day with valid government photo ID. Discount applies only to individual buffet price. Visit in-store for more details.
📍 Yes Sushi Edinburgh
Final Bites
Edinburgh’s buffet scene offers a diverse range of options to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for global flavors at COSMO, the fusion delights of Mr Basrai’s, or the authentic tastes of China Red and Beijing Banquet, there’s something for everyone. For sushi lovers, Yes Sushi provides a delightful Japanese buffet experience.
For more insights into Edinburgh’s culinary landscape, especially from a Scottish-Indian perspective, visit scottishindian.com. Discover hidden gems, restaurant reviews, and food guides tailored for the modern diner.
*Note: Prices, timings, and discounts are subject to change
by Soniya Basu | May 12, 2025 | Restaurants, Spotlights
Your Ultimate Guide to Desi Food in Scotland’s Capital | ScottishIndian.com
Missing the taste of home? Whether you’re a student missing your mum’s dal or a working professional craving spicy biryani after a long week, we’ve got you. 🫶
At ScottishIndian.com, we’re all about helping Indians living in Scotland feel at home and nothing hits closer to home than a steaming plate of butter chicken or masala dosa.
Here’s our curated guide to the best Indian restaurants in Edinburgh serving up truly authentic flavours from North Indian classics to South Indian comfort food.
1. Kalpna
📍 2-3 St Patrick Square, Edinburgh EH8 9EZ
A vegetarian’s paradise for more than 40 years, Kalpna is beloved by students, locals, and long-time residents alike. Their Rajbhog thali and saag paneer are comfort food heaven. Affordable, soulful, and endlessly satisfying.
💡 Perfect for Indian students on a budget craving real Ghar ka khaana.
2. Mother India’s Café
📍 3-5 Infirmary St, Edinburgh EH1 1LT
📍 1355 Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AD
This tapas-style Indian restaurant is iconic in Scotland, with branches in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Order multiple small plates like chilli garlic chicken, keema matar, and saag paneer — perfect for sharing with your flatmates.
🎉 Gen Z-friendly, casual, and always buzzing with energy.
3. Dishoom Edinburgh
📍3a St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2BD
Yes, it’s a chain — but Dishoom gets major props for atmosphere and nostalgia. The menu is inspired by old-school Bombay cafés, with must-tries like pav bhaji, bacon naan rolls, and house chai.
📸 Instagram-worthy interiors + actual flavour = double win.
📍 132 Gorgie Rd, Edinburgh EH11 2NS
If biryani is your love language, then Hyderabadi Paradise is your go-to spot in Edinburgh. Known for its authentic Hyderabadi dum biryani, and flavour-packed curries, this place feels like a direct line to the streets of Charminar.
💬 ScottishIndian Tip: Their mutton biryani sells out fast on weekends — pre-order!.
✨ Great for foodies and flavour explorers.
Final Word from ScottishIndian.com
Whether you’re hunting for homestyle dal, Punjabi street food, or Insta-worthy fusion dishes, Edinburgh has no shortage of amazing Indian restaurants to explore. Food is more than a craving — it’s culture, comfort, and community.
At ScottishIndian.com, we’re building your digital desi home in the UK — one plate at a time.
