Every year, over a billion people globally celebrate Diwali. Each region and religion celebrates it differently and for various reasons, with distinct customs and traditions. For some, it’s a new year, a new beginning. Others see it as the triumph of light over darkness, of good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali, for the most part, is a celebration that culminates in delicious food, spending time with loved ones, and introspection.
This year, Diwali falls on Nov. 12, and we created the ultimate gift guide for the upcoming festivities. Whether you’re shopping for your friends, family, or even kids, we found the best gifts to give your loved ones for the Festival of Lights. The best part? All these gifts are from or in collaboration with South Asian-owned businesses.
Your makeup-loving friends will adore the limited edition Huegloss Trio from Live Tinted, an editor-favorite eyeliner from Kulfi Beauty, or a flattering multistick from Mango People Cosmetics. Skin-care enthusiasts will love the travel-size kit of Aavrani’s bestselling Ayurvedic-inspired formulas. And if their self-care routine involves hair oiling, treat them to hair oils from Squigs and Fable and Mane, and Indé Wild, all which our editors love. Shopping for the trendsetter? Get them stylish jewelry they can wear with both traditional wear or jeans, or a sophisticated tote bag from Cuyana. We also found a few fun picks that will surely impress, like a fun and relatable card game that may or may not involve drinking.
Give your family the yummiest sweet treats from Malai Ice Cream. Shopping for the chef in your life? They’ll be as excited as a pataka (fireworks) when they get the Diwali edition of the editor-favorite Our Place Always Pan. If you want something personable, gift them the Fleur Frame from Venus Et Fleur with a sentimental picture. The little ones in your life, meanwhile, will adore the cutest plush from Modi Toys, a teether shaped like a samosa, or a diya-shaped bubble-popping fidget toy. You can even get a mess-free Rangoli puzzle or a stunning hand-painted, henna-inspired art puzzle from Kulture Khazana.
If you’re shopping for someone specific, shop this guide by the categories ahead:
Give a meaningful gift this Diwali and celebrate the Festival of Lights with South Asian-owned businesses.
