How is the famous Uttar Pradesh sweet, "Petha," traditionally made?

Petha, a translucent candy made from ash gourd (winter melon), is a quintessential sweet treat of Uttar Pradesh, particularly popular in Agra. To make Petha, thin slices of ash gourd are boiled in sugar syrup infused with flavors like rose water, saffron, or cardamom until they become translucent. The candied slices are then left to cool and solidify, resulting in a sweet delicacy with a unique texture and subtle flavor. Petha comes in various varieties, including plain, saffron-infused (Kesar Petha), and dry fruit-studded versions, delighting the taste buds of locals and tourists alike.