SPHERE's Luxury Guide to Diwali

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an important holiday dating back to ancient India. Each year its date varies as the Hindu lunar calendar is based on the moon’s cycle. This year, Diwali falls on October 31st, although celebrations span 5 days. Diwali is celebrated by many religions and can be honoured at home or in public. Regardless of where you choose to spend it, this festive time uplifts moods and brings communities together. 

Deciding how to join in on the festivities this year? Look no further than SPHEREs Luxury Guide to Diwali, showcasing a selection of the wonderful options you have. From indulging in tasting menus and attending literature festivals, to limited-edition biscuits and bath bombs perfect for gifting.

Benares – Best for a tasting menu

Michelin-starred restaurant, Benares, welcomes guests to celebrate Diwali in style with a special tasting menu created by Chef Sameer Taneja. This eight-course menu includes Scottish Halibut Tikka and Hing-Mutter Shorba with Cauliflower Scallop to start. Alongside other flavourful dishes and Malai Ghevar to finish on a sweet note. There is also an equally delicious vegetarian menu to suit all preferences.   

As a special surprise in the tradition of gifting, Benares will also be giving guests an envelope containing gifts or prizes. As well as the chance to win a wine paired tasting menu at the Chef’s table. Gifts aside, this tasting menu alone is sure to pique your excitement. 

This tasting menu is available from 28th October to 3rd November. Book here to learn more about Benares in Mayfair.

Lush – Best for relaxation

When I think of Lush, I think of ultimate self-care and pampering. Their uplifting scents lull you into a sense of calm and there’s nothing better after a long week. Seeking a relaxing Diwali this year or looking to decompress after a night full of celebrations, Lush has just what you need. Enjoy a soak with one of their limited-edition bath bombs or check out their Good Karma shower gift set. With scents of orange and patchouli to ylang ylang oil, jasmine and vanilla - you can’t go wrong. Not to mention, their Sparkling Light shower gel is sure to brighten your night.

Buy these pamper essentials here or head to a store near you.

Bombay Bustle – Best for celebrating

I had the pleasure of attending Bombay Bustle’s Diwali celebration. Hosted by owner Samyukta Nair with food writer and Chef Maunika Gowardhan, who crafted the menu alongside Executive Chef Surender Mohan. They created a Thali Diwali served on traditional silver platters individual to each person. Making it the perfect meal for those who want to enjoy Indian cuisine without the sharing. The Malabar Lamb Curry was the star of the show with flavours of dry chilli, peppercorn and coconut. My personal favourite was the Mawa Mawe ki Kheer served for dessert, reminding me of an elevated rice pudding. 

A unique venture for Bombay Bustle is their Diwali Bazaar. Here they sell a bespoke collection of trinkets, handmade ceramics and embroidered pouches alongside a selection of homemade sweets. A trip in here is perfect for picking up some handmade gifts to spread the Diwali spirit.

The Thali Diwali will be served from 23rd October to 3rd November, book via this link.

Biscuiteers – Best for a sweet treat

Biscuiteers are always the perfect gift for any occasion and Diwali is no different. Consider delighting your loved ones with a Diwali keepsake tin filled with 16 beautifully decorated hand iced biscuits that are themed to fit this festive time. This versatile gift can be delivered worldwide making it ideal for your overseas friends or keep it as a treat for yourself (…I know I would).

Order the keepsake biscuit tin here.

Trishna – Best for private dining

If you’re seeking a more intimate dining experience Trishna’s private dining room may be the place for you. Accommodating up to 12 guests, gather your family or friends for a celebration that’s personal to you. Enjoy a six-course tasting menu specially curated by Executive Chef Sajeev Nair, with dishes such as half lobster ghee roast or jackfruit pepper fry. Along with the option to add a sommelier wine pairing, this dinner will satisfy all tastes. And make sure you don’t miss the external installation of flowers and lights made just for the occasion.

Visit Trishna’s in Marylebone village for this exquisite meal from 28th October to 3rd November.

DESIblitz 2024 – Best for culture

UK’s largest festival for British South Asian writing, DESIblitz Literature Festival, has come to Birmingham. Supported by the Arts Council England, the festival will feature talents such as designer and artist Osman Yousefzada, author Preethi Nair and filmaker and actor Jassa Ahluwalia to name a few. Join discussions about diversity in British publishing and listen to experiences of living as a brown woman in Britain. This festival is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the thriving South Asian talent that the UK has to offer and is not one to be missed.

The festival runs from 19th October to 2nd November 2024, book your tickets here.