The Deepavali 2026 guide: What to eat, gift and wear this season

Before you light that first diya, here is a look at how India is celebrating Deepavali. 2026 has been a roller coaster but the festival is finally here and we are here to help you choose from sustainable gifts to luxury purchases. We give an assortment of options in sweets and savouries, including outlets that are experimenting with fusion sweets.

Whether you prefer homemade sweets or couverture chocolate hampers or even dulce de leche, we have covered it all. On the gifting front, we have reported on indie brands, handcrafted decor and other gift hampers that offer distinctive gifts for Deepavali. The festive fashion front now has its own interpretations of modern dressing, while some designers are bringing their own festive spin to their collections.

Here’s a look at various articles covered by The Hindu on 2026 Deepavali’s must-have lists.