Tiffin boxes or lunch boxes have been an important part of Indian daily life for many years and have evolved. From simple steel-tiered tiffin boxes to modern designs, these tiffin boxes have played an important role in shaping lunchtime culture across the nation. A traditional steel-tiered tiffin box passed down through generations, a plastic tiffin box for children, or even a glass tiffin box for an employee, the evolution of tiffin boxes depicts stories of a lifetime.
The tiffin box symbolizes the rich cultural tradition of India. It has been carried for many years as a safe container for people to carry home-cooked meals for the working class. The evolution of the tiffin box is reflected in the changes in the materials and designs and the growing demand for stylish and beneficial tiffin boxes.
In India Circus, there is a range of beautifully designed Indian tiffin boxesIndian tiffin boxes that blend tradition with modernity. The Budding Blossoms Lunch Box and The Clover’s Knotty Play Lunch Box are collections from India Circus that are beautifully designed and eco-friendly.
Let us explore the interesting journey of tiffin boxes through times and understand how tiffin boxes have changed the way we carry and enjoy our meals.
Tiffin Box History
Tiffin box history is an interesting story to tell. The term ‘tiffin’ itself originates from the British slang for a light meal or snack and over time it developed to imply lunch or a mid-day meal. Metal tiffin boxes were originally used to carry food. They came with stacked layers, which were perfect for holding different dishes and keeping them separate.
Metal tiffin boxes gained popularity in cities like Mumbai, where dabbawalas (lunch delivery men) would transport home-cooked food to office workers using layered steel-tiered tiffin boxes.
Over time tiffin boxes became an important part of daily life, developing in terms of materials and design. Today, plastic tiffin boxes and glass tiffin boxes offer more variety, for different choices and needs.
India Circus offers metal tiffin boxes that are eco-friendly and stylish. These tiffin boxes are a perfect blend of tradition and modernity that adds charm to daily life.
Different Types of Tiffin Box

1. Indian Tiffin Box-
The traditional Indian tiffin box is a work of art, inspired by culture and tradition. made from metal, these boxes often come in multiple tiers, allowing you to store various foods without mixing them. The Indian tiffin box is designed to keep your food warm for hours, keeping your food fresh.
India Circus offers a beautiful collection of Indian tiffin boxes, handcrafted with an eye for detail and an appreciation for Indian tradition. The Blossom Treasure Lunch Box from India Circus is a beautiful collection of tiffin boxes inspired by Indian culture and tradition.
2. Steel-Tiered Tiffin Boxes-
One of the most popular styles of tiffin boxes is the steel-tiered tiffin box. The steel construction makes these boxes typically come with tiers, allowing you to carry a full meal with a variety of dishes, from rice and curry to roti and dal.
The steel-tiered tiffin box is a timeless choice and India Circus appreciates this design with stylish patterns and colors. The Berry Bunch Lunch Box from India Circus is a multiple-tiered tiffin box that is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
3. Plastic Tiffin Boxes-
While metal tiffin boxes have remained a staple in many households, plastic tiffin boxes have gained popularity in recent years. These plastic tiffin boxes come in various shapes and sizes with lighter weight. These are designed with secure latches to prevent spills. Thus, it is quite popular among students.
However, plastic tiffin boxes can’t match metal tiffin boxes which ensures the quality of food and health concerns. India Circus offers stylish metal tiffin boxes of every size and color that meet everyone’s needs.
4. Glass tiffin Boxes-
For those who prefer an eco-friendly option, glass tiffin boxes are an ideal choice. Glass tiffin boxes are free from harmful chemicals and are a safer and healthier option. They are microwave and dishwasher-safe, adding to their complement.
India Circus offers steel-tiered tiffin boxes with stylish designs and colors. Steel-tiered tiffin boxes are eco-friendly and healthier options just like glass tiffin boxes, and are free from breakage problems, hence are safer options. The Aerial Moments Lunch Box from India Circus is a beautiful collection of steel-tiered tiffin boxes, designed beautifully inspired by Indian artwork and adding charm with its lovely color.
Indian Tiffin Box
The Indian tiffin box is much more than a lunch container, it’s an essential part of Indian culture. Over time it has become a symbol of care, love, and tradition. Parents pack tiffins for their children with homemade meals, while office workers rely on them for a nutritious lunch break. With the rise of healthy eating trends, the demand for Indian tiffin boxes continues to grow.
At India Circus, they put the cultural importance of the Indian tiffin box by offering a beautifully designed option. Looking for a steel-tiered tiffin box? Find the right tiffin box as per your need only at India Circus.
Conclusion
The evolution of the tiffin box is a fascinating journey, that reflects the changing needs of society while staying true to its roots. From the metal tiffin box used by dabbawalas in Mumbai to the modern plastic tiffin box and glass tiffin boxes, something new while maintaining the core purpose of carrying home-cooked meals with love and care.
The Indian tiffin box continues to be a staple in households across India, offering usefulness and creativity. Whether you prefer a classic steel-tiered tiffin box or a sleek, modern plastic tiffin box, there’s a tiffin box for every need and personality.
At India Circus, we take pride in offering a range of stylish, functional, and high-quality tiffin boxes that celebrate tradition and modern design. With unique patterns, vibrant colors, and craftsmanship, our Indian tiffin boxes are perfect for carrying your meals in style. The Berry Bunch Lunch Box and The Aerial Moments Lunch Box are two beautiful collections from India Circus.
FAQs about The Evolution of Tiffin Boxes
1.What is the best material for a tiffin box?
The best material for a tiffin box is a steel-tiered tiffin box, that is eco-friendly and non-breakable keeping your food fresh for hours.
2.Can a glass tiffin box be used in the microwave?
Glass tiffin boxes are safe to use in the microwave.
3. Are plastic tiffin boxes safe to use?
Plastic tiffin boxes are designed to be safe, so it’s important to choose quality material.