From festive hosting to getting ready, HELLO! India's 20+ essentials for the Diwali season

Diwali brings with it a calendar of gatherings, dinners, celebrations and plenty of preparation. From setting the table and serving guests to refreshing your home, putting together a festive look and stocking up on treats, having the right essentials on hand can make the season run more smoothly. Whether you are hosting at home, getting ready for a celebration or looking to add a few thoughtful touches to your everyday routine, HELLO! India picks the items that will help you prepare for the festivities.

(Also Read: HELLO! India's 30+ Diwali gifts for your loved ones)

1. The finishing touch for a well-dressed table

When entertaining at home, even the smallest details can make a difference to the table. ellementry’s Tangle Gold Cheese Knife Set of three is designed for serving cheese, appetisers and charcuterie during festive get-togethers. Its gold finish adds a decorative touch to a hosting spread, while the set is practical to bring out whenever guests are over.

2. A well-stocked drinks cabinet for festive gatherings

A selection of MacRoys Blended Scotch expressions makes for a useful addition to the home bar when friends and family come over. The range includes Special Reserve, matured in first-fill bourbon casks for notes of vanilla, caramel and oak; Extra Peat, which brings together honey, chocolate, vanilla and smoky notes from bourbon and sherry cask ageing; and Sherry Cask Finish. It offers a choice of flavour profiles for serving guests or enjoying a relaxed evening at home.

3. An everyday accessory that keeps up with a busy festive calendar

The GÄRRTEN 528 Leather Crossbody Belt Bag in Forest Green is a practical addition for a season filled with plans and outings. Handcrafted in India using LWG Gold-certified Italian leather, it features artisan-woven straps and a versatile silhouette that works across casual daytime plans and festive gatherings. Its hands-free design also makes it a useful companion when you are moving between celebrations.

4. A little ambience for evenings at home

The SEVA HOME x Suryakant Lokhande Playing Cards Edit brings fragrance and visual interest into the home. The set features four scented candles named King, Queen, Jack and Ace, each inspired by the familiar motifs of playing cards and finished with the NOIR fragrance. They can be placed around the living room or dining area to create a welcoming atmosphere before guests arrive.

5. An easy way to serve something sweet

For those who enjoy putting together a dessert spread, the Ninja CREAMi 7-in-1 Ice Cream and Frozen Treat Maker offers a convenient way to prepare frozen treats at home. It transforms a frozen base into ice cream, gelato or sorbet, with seven programmes and a mix-in function for customising flavours and textures. It is a useful addition for family gatherings, dinner parties or simply having a homemade dessert ready for guests.

6. A design refresh for your home

Galeries Lafayette Mumbai’s first-ever Home Pop-Up, Artful Living, brings together a considered selection of international and Indian homeware labels. The edit includes names such as Versace x Rosenthal, Roberto Cavalli, Missoni Home, Seletti, Lladró, BE@RBRICK, Leblon Delienne, Assouline and Indian studio Claymen. From statement tableware to decorative accents, the selection offers plenty of inspiration for refreshing your home ahead of the festive season.

7. A rejuvenating ritual amid the festive rush

With a packed social calendar, making time for peaceful sleep and skincare from within becomes just as important as preparing for the celebrations. Sip. Sleep. Shine.’s Sleep & Skin Rejuvenation Mix is a bedtime blend featuring ingredients such as ashwagandha, brahmi and nutmeg. It is designed to be incorporated into an evening routine to nourish skin internally and slow down after a busy day of festive preparations.

8. A versatile bag for celebrations and beyond

The Miraggio Suzie Shoulder Bag, part of the brand’s Autumn/Winter 2026 collaboration with Korea-based creative director Ying Ying Yang, brings a distinctive finishing touch to a festive wardrobe. Its structured silhouette and floral hardware give it a statement quality, while its shape makes it versatile enough to carry from daytime plans to evening celebrations.

9. An interesting addition to the drinks menu

For those planning to entertain at home, Drifters Brewing Company’s Belgian White and Mexican Crisp offer two distinct options to add to the drinks selection. The Belgian White brings a refreshing wheat beer profile, while Mexican Crisp offers a lighter, crisp alternative. They can be served alongside appetisers and snacks when hosting a relaxed get-together.

10. Festive details that give your space a shake-up

Chumbak’s Forest Folklore collection offers a playful way to bring colour and character into the home ahead of Diwali. The range spans hand-painted steel and copper tumblers, mugs, bowls, plates and jars, alongside cushion covers, runners, mats, planters, jewellery holders, candle holders and figurines. These pieces can be mixed into everyday spaces or brought out to add a little more personality to the home when entertaining.

(Also Read: Hot Off The HELLO! India Rack: Diwali 2026 edition)

11. A streamlined way to get ready

The Dyson Airstrait combines wet-to-dry styling and straightening in one tool, making it a practical addition to a festive getting-ready routine. It uses airflow rather than heated plates to straighten hair, while its technology is designed to style without extreme heat. For a season filled with dinners, parties and last-minute plans, it can help simplify the process of getting ready.

12. A treat to bring out when guests arrive

Bon Fiction’s Indian tree-to-bar chocolates make a considered addition to a festive hosting spread. Made with Indian-grown cacao sourced from Rajahmundry, the collection includes flavour combinations such as Matcha Prince and The Blue Pea, The Coconut Covenant, Lost in an Orange Haze, The Cranberry Chili Chase and A Rose in Pistachio Skies. Available in hampers of four or 10, they can be served after dinner or arranged alongside coffee for guests.

13. Tableware that makes hosting feel more personal

Fête Home brings colour and character to the home through story-led collections of porcelain, ceramic, vegan bone china and handcrafted homeware. Its tableware and decorative pieces are particularly suited to festive entertaining, offering ways to make a dining table feel more considered while adding personality to the spaces where guests gather.

14. Indulgence for your body before the festivities begin

Diptyque’s Les Rituels de Soin collection brings a considered approach to everyday body care, with products designed around morning and evening rituals. The range includes lotions, balms, oils and wax, with formulations featuring 95 per cent naturally derived ingredients and fragrances that are 100 per cent naturally derived. Its accessories, including lacquered wood, biscuit porcelain and oyster-shell terrazzo pieces, also bring an elevated touch to the bathroom or dressing area.

15. Coffee-table reads that double as conversation starters

A selection of Assouline coffee-table books can bring a decorative and conversational element to living spaces when hosting. Titles such as Jaipur Splendor, Golden Opulence: 500 Years of Luxuriant Style and Wine & Travel France explore architecture, design, culture and travel through richly presented editions. Placed on a coffee table or bookshelf, they add to the atmosphere of a room while giving guests something to browse between conversations.

16. Smarter hair care for festive styling

EDT introduces SUKI, a Care-Dryer™ designed specifically for Indian hair, bringing together beauty, technology and intentional living. Built around the brand’s patent-pending Care-Dry™ Algorithm, the hair dryer moves through a sequence of temperatures as hair dries, never exceeding 70°C, before finishing with a cool shot. Intelligent airflow and plasma ions further support its care-first approach, making the drying process more responsive to the needs of Indian hair. SUKI takes into account factors such as coarser, denser and more porous textures, alongside everyday challenges including humidity, hard water, pollution and heat. Rather than prioritising speed and high temperatures alone, it rethinks a routine step that often exposes hair to frequent heat. 

17. Levantine sweet treats for festive hosting

Hurrem’s Baklava & Confectionery brings Levantine flavours to the Diwali table with ten festive hampers featuring baklava, Turkish delight, lokum, biscotti, stuffed dates, tea and coffee. Spanning three collections, the range offers everything from smaller assortments for intimate gatherings to elaborate selections for larger celebrations. A thoughtful addition to your festive spread, the hampers are ideal for serving guests or enjoying after dinner.

18. A glossy lip for festive celebrations

Kay Beauty’s Hydra Luscious Hydrating Lip Gloss Stain is a Diwali-ready pick for anyone who loves a polished lip with staying power. Blending the high-shine finish of a gloss with the lasting colour of a stain, its lightweight, non-sticky formula delivers a juicy look that transitions effortlessly from daytime festivities to celebratory evenings. Available in eight shades spanning soft nudes, pretty pinks and deeper statement hues, it offers plenty of ways to complement a festive ensemble. Wear it for a fresh, glossy finish or build up the colour for a more striking look.

19. A versatile oven for festive feasts

For the home chef who loves experimenting in the kitchen, the Ember Marvel Oven makes a thoughtful Diwali gift. With eight cooking functions, including baking, air frying and fermenting, it brings versatility to everyday meals and festive entertaining alike. Powered by MistFlow™ Steam Flow Technology and HexaWand™ 6 Core Heat Technology, it is designed to make everything from daily cooking to preparing special festive treats more effortless, leaving more room to enjoy the celebrations.

20. A little sparkle goes a long way

A stylish Diwali wardrobe calls for pieces that strike the right balance between festive glamour and contemporary appeal. Studio 22 is one label to explore when looking for occasion-worthy additions that can transition effortlessly from an intimate family gathering to a more elaborate evening celebration. Whether you are leaning towards a statement silhouette or a versatile festive ensemble, the right pick can instantly elevate your party wardrobe.

21. Make an entrance in contemporary couture

For those who prefer their festive wardrobe with a contemporary edge, 431-88 by Shweta Kapur offers an interesting interplay of structure, movement and craftsmanship. The brand's F/W '26 Biophilia collection draws inspiration from the natural world, translating its patterns and rhythms into fluid draping, sculptural silhouettes, intricate surface details and layered textures. For a more elevated evening look, explore the Demi Couture collection, which brings statement silhouettes and considered detailing to the occasion-wear edit. Complete the ensemble with the label's bags and hair accessories for a look that feels thoughtfully put together.

22. Make statement dressing your festive mantra

When it comes to dressing for a Diwali soirée, a little drama is always welcome. Ridhi Mehra's signature approach to occasion wear offers an elegant direction for those who enjoy dressing up for the festivities. Think refined silhouettes, intricate detailing and statement-making ensembles that bring together traditional Indian aesthetics and contemporary sensibilities. Whether you are attending a card party or hosting a glamorous evening at home, a thoughtfully chosen outfit from the designer's repertoire is sure to make an impression.

23. Dress to make an impression

 

No festive celebration is complete without a touch of sparkle. Gaia by Archie offers an elegant selection of jewellery to elevate your Diwali wardrobe, whether you're dressing up a classic saree, adding a finishing touch to a contemporary lehenga or keeping things understated with a chic kurta set. From festive gatherings to glamorous evening soirées, the right jewellery can add just the right amount of shimmer to your celebrations.

24. A modern take on traditional menswear

A well-tailored bandhgala is a festive wardrobe investment that never goes out of style. Minizmo's Black Bandhgala makes a case for understated elegance, featuring sharp tailoring, oxidised gold-toned metal buttons and a complementary pocket square. Its classic black palette makes it particularly versatile for Diwali parties, formal dinners and evening celebrations. Pair it with tailored black trousers and polished footwear for an effortlessly sophisticated festive look.

25. Put your best foot forward

Between card parties, family dinners and festive soirées, comfortable footwear is often the most overlooked part of getting ready. ECCO makes a compelling case for changing that with its collection of thoughtfully crafted shoes, designed to take you from the first greeting to the last dance. The Danish footwear brand combines leather expertise with contemporary silhouettes that work equally well with Indian occasion wear and western ensembles. A standout pick is the ECCO Metro Milan M Double Monk in black, priced at ₹15,999. Featuring polished leather and a distinctive double-buckle design, it is an elegant choice to pair with a bandhgala. Because looking good should never mean spending the evening wishing you had worn more comfortable shoes.

26. Give your tresses a festive refresh

Between back-to-back celebrations, heat styling and elaborate hairstyles, your hair deserves a little extra attention during the festive season. Enter the new Spa Essence range by Schwarzkopf Professional, a professional hair spa ritual inspired by the restorative philosophy of Thalassotherapy. Bringing together marine-inspired science and a sensorial salon experience, the range features Marine Collagen, Kelp Extract, Sea Fennel Extract and Hydrolyzed Keratin. Designed to address key hair concerns and restore hair to its optimal condition, it is a welcome addition to your pre-party beauty routine. After all, a great festive look begins with healthy-looking, well-nourished hair.

27. Deal yourself into the festivities

No Diwali party is complete without a competitive round of cards, and Rani Pink's Ladies Card Set makes the experience all the more special. Priced at ₹39,000, the polished wooden box houses a complete playing-card set, accompanied by four pure brass meenakari playing tokens, each finished with a distinct motif. The cards feature delicate jaal detailing, while the oversized dealer button takes inspiration from a traditional meenakari dabbi. A beautiful blend of nostalgia and craftsmanship, this is one tabletop essential that doubles as a conversation starter.

28. Dance your way into the night

Between card parties, family dinners and festive soirées, comfortable footwear is often the most overlooked part of getting ready. ECCO makes a compelling case for changing that with its collection of thoughtfully crafted shoes, designed to take you from the first greeting to the last dance. The Danish footwear brand combines leather expertise with contemporary silhouettes that work equally well with Indian occasion wear and western ensembles. A standout pick is the ECCO Metro Milan M Double Monk in black, priced at ₹15,999. Featuring polished leather and a distinctive double-buckle design, it is an elegant choice to pair with a bandhgala. Because looking good should never mean spending the evening wishing you had worn more comfortable shoes.

29. Walk into the festivities like royalty

Sometimes, the smallest details make the biggest difference to an outfit. House of Vitti's Gold Mahaara Jutti is a case in point. Crafted on a dark beige silk base, the design features a princess-inspired silhouette with intricate gold zari jaal detailing. At its centre is a cutdana motif, complemented by scalloped embroidery and refined gold accents throughout. Elegant without being overpowering, this pair is ideal for styling with anarkalis, lehengas and festive kurta sets. Consider it your invitation to embrace a little understated royalty this Diwali.

30. Get your skin party-ready

A luminous complexion is one festive accessory that never goes out of style. The Formularx's Hydraveil Plus Ceramide Aqua Glow Moisturiser is designed to deliver lightweight hydration while supporting the skin's natural barrier. Its formulation combines squalane, ceramide, panthenol, sodium hyaluronate and peptides to help hydrate, soothe and maintain supple-looking skin. The fast-absorbing gel-cream texture leaves behind a dewy finish without feeling heavy or sticky, making it a practical addition to your pre-party skincare routine. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, it also layers comfortably under sunscreen and makeup, helping create a smooth base for your festive glam.

31. A celebration of colour, craft and tradition

Dohr's Reet Silk Chanderi Handcrafted Magenta Kurta Set with Farshi Salwar is a striking choice for festive evenings. Rendered in a vibrant magenta hue, the silk Chanderi ensemble features intricate dori work and manual embroidery, with sequins, resham, dabka and gota adding depth and texture. The graceful farshi salwar is paired with an exclusive in-house organza dupatta featuring distinctive zari stripes. Rich in detail and traditional artistry, it is an ideal pick for family celebrations and Diwali soirées.

32. Embrace traditional craftsmanship in festive best

For a more playful take, Mulmul's Luni Kurta brings together premium denim and festive embellishment. The relaxed, straight-cut silhouette features all-over gold-toned floral motifs, intricate embroidery along the neckline, sleeves and hem, and delicate tassel accents. Paired with a contrasting fuchsia salwar featuring embroidered borders and a coordinated dupatta, the ensemble strikes a balance between comfort and colour. Soft, breathable and easy to wear, it is a particularly versatile choice for a day-to-evening festive celebration.

33. Step into the festive mood

Festive dressing is all about the details, and the right footwear can make all the difference. NEEDLEDUST brings together traditional Indian craftsmanship and contemporary luxury through its handcrafted juttis, heels, sandals and bags. For your Diwali wardrobe, the Luna Heel (₹8,990) and Luna Purse (₹14,990) make a particularly stylish pairing, designed to complement each other for a coordinated festive look. Prefer a little more colour? The Navratan Batua Purse (₹16,990) adds a jewel-toned accent, while the matching Navratan Heel (₹9,990) offers a lighter finishing touch. These artisan-crafted accessories are an easy way to bring a hint of old-world charm to your celebrations.

34. Celebrate your festive style 

Conceived as a fashion destination celebrating the modern woman, Gaia by Archie Chopra brings together distinctive Indian labels and thoughtfully curated clothing that embraces individuality and self-expression. Going beyond occasion wear, the label champions the evolving language of fashion through unique silhouettes, intricate karigari and exquisite embroidery. With an emphasis on craftsmanship and contemporary design, its collections celebrate the many facets of today's woman, encouraging her to embrace her personal style with confidence. This Diwali, explore Gaia's edit of elegant festive ensembles that bring together tradition, contemporary aesthetics and the art of dressing beautifully.

35. Immersive sound for festive gatherings

For the host who loves setting the mood, the Sonos Era 300 makes a thoughtful Diwali gift. Designed to bring music to every corner of the room, its six-driver spatial audio architecture delivers rich, multidirectional sound that envelops guests in an immersive listening experience. From ambient ragas during festive rituals to nostalgic vinyl favourites and spatial audio playlists for evening get-togethers, it brings a concert-like atmosphere to every celebration.

(Also Read: HELLO! India Eat Buy Try: Our hot list for October 2026)