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From Love To Thanks: The Many Flavours of Chocolate
deccanchronicle.com
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
As Valentine’s Week approaches, Chocolate Day stands out as one of the most loved celebrations. Observed on February 9, one should not be confused with World Chocolate Day, which is celebrated on July 7. “Look, there’s no metaphysics on earth like chocolate.” – Fernando Pessoa ...
As Valentine’s Week approaches, Chocolate Day stands out as one of the most loved celebrations. Observed on February 9, one should not be confused with World Chocolate Day, which is celebrated on July 7.
“Look, there’s no metaphysics on earth like chocolate.”
– Fernando Pessoa
While Valentine’s Day traces its roots back to the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, the idea of an entire “Valentine Week” came much later. Over time, media influence and changing social habits shaped these themed days, with Chocolate Day emerging as a sweet way to express affection.
"Biochemically, love is just like eating large amounts of chocolate."
– John Milton
Chocolate became closely linked with romance in the 1860s when Richard Cadbury introduced the first heart-shaped chocolate boxes. This simple yet thoughtful idea turned chocolate into a symbol of love and gifting. Ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans believed it had aphrodisiac qualities and even used it in wedding rituals, giving chocolate a long-standing association with celebration and bonding.
"Money can’t buy happiness. But it can buy chocolate, which is pretty much the same thing."
– Anonymous
Today, chocolate represents indulgence, comfort, and shared happiness. Scientifically, it is known to trigger the release of dopamine and endorphins, chemicals linked to pleasure and joy. This makes chocolate a fitting symbol for the warmth and happiness people feel in meaningful relationships.
"There's nothing better than opening a block of chocolate and sitting back, and that little joy it brings to your face and to your body."
-Adriano Zumbo
What’s interesting is how Chocolate Day has grown beyond romance. In modern times, chocolates are also being used to express gratitude and appreciation. Gifting a chocolate has become a simple yet heartfelt way to say “thank you.”
“There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate.”
– Linda Grayson
Students give chocolates to teachers, families surprise parents and grandparents, friends exchange them as tokens of trust, and in workplaces, there is an exchange of chocolates as a gesture of appreciation for the hard work and dedication.
Chocolates have become a popular addition to sweet treat baskets in India and are now commonly gifted during festivals like Deepavali.
"All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt."
- Charles M. Schulz
This shift reflects a broader understanding of love, not just romantic love, but love rooted in care, respect, and kindness. Chocolates are easy to share, universally enjoyed, and carry a message that does not need words.
"Make a list of important things to do today. At the top of your list, put "eat chocolate." Now, you'll get at least one thing done today." - Gina Hayes
Whether it is a luxury chocolate box, a simple Cadbury bar, or homemade treats, Chocolate Day now reminds us that appreciation, in any form, is always worth celebrating.
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