Last minute Diwali prep?

Why you should avoid gifting sweets and the right etiquette to follow during those parties

Diwali, the festival of lights is here and there are certain things to keep in mind while taking part in the celebrations. While it’s a festival to bond with your family and relatives, women are usually stuck in the kitchen, cooking and serving food.

To avoid that, etiquette expert Priya Warrick says, “It’s better to organise yourself and know about the likes and dislikes of your guests before they start trickling in. So cook beforehand and keep the spread ready on food warmers or casseroles. Having a small buffet-style set-up would come in handy. Even having a potluck dinner wouldn’t be such a bad idea. Also, use disposable cutlery while serving your guests as it would save time in doing the dishes later.”

Another thing that your loved ones look forward to are gifts. While everyone wants to be different and extravagant, Priya says it’s better if the gifts are more practical. Stylist and grooming expert Bobby Khandari adds, “Some thought has to be put in while you’re buying gifts. Though the Diwali parties have been low-key this year, people have been interested in out-of-the-box gifting ideas, which reflect the spirit of the festival.

For me, candles and flowers mean Diwali so I try to use them as much as possible while decorating gifts. I have done a lot of sugar-free chocolates, almonds, different array of candle-holders and special flower arrangements. Even marble lotuses stuffed with chocolates or dry fruits have been quite popular. These are functional, pretty and can be used, too.”

However, Priya cautions, “We are the diabetes capital of the world so probably food should take a backseat. It’s better if you gift something that is needed, like women would definitely appreciate sandwich makers, grinders, etc. Even some cool toys would work well for kids, whereas a bottle of wine or whisky or a pen set would be ideal for men.”

To give your house a festive look, event planner Minttu Sarna says, “This year, using Rajasthani fabric lehariya is quite in. Instead of wearing it, people want to deck up their homes with it. Even using marigold flowers, which are easily available, and some candles or diyas will instantly light up your house.”

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