Diwali, usually celebrated just before the beginning of winter, is observed in many cities in the United Kingdom. It is known as the festival of lights and is celebrated in many homes with an array of lights that adorn the entire house and even outside. Celebrated around mid-October and mid-November, it is a pleasant diversion from the impending winter blues. Most Indian families adorn their homes with fairy lights even five days prior to the celebrations. It is a wonderful time to connect with loved ones both within and outside the country, honor age-long traditions, and spread joy.
The exchange of gifts is a key component of Diwali celebrations and choosing the perfect gift for family and friends makes it even more special. We have curated a list of 25 unique Diwali gifts for you to consider as you celebrate the festival of lights. But first, let us understand what this Hindu celebration is all about….
What is Diwali?
Diwali, also known as Deepavali or Deepawali, is a vibrant and joyous Hindu festival celebrated by millions around the world. you can call it the Hindu Christmas or the Christmas before the actual Christmas. It is also enjoyed by non-Hindu individuals as it is marked by lots of lights, sweet savory food and the exchange of gifts.
Diwali is celebrated to commemorate the victory of Krishna over the demon Narakasura. It represents the spiritual triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and Dharma over Adharma. Diwali is associated with the goddess Lakshmi the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Ganesha the god of wisdom.
It is a time when homes are adorned with diyas (oil lamps), decorative lights and beautiful rangoli designs, which create a cozy and cheerful atmosphere.
The festivities last for about 5 to 6 days each year and are defined by a number of rituals each having its own cultural significance and meaning. Decorative lights, colorful rangoli patterns, and sparkling diyas (oil lamps) enliven homes and streets. In addition to representing happiness and success, these decorations welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of riches and plenty, into homes.
Diwali is a time of celebration and joy that goes beyond the spiritual rituals. It is a time when families gather to worship, dine, and exchange gifts, bringing families together to create lasting memories. This event has become a genuinely worldwide celebration of light and hope because its universal themes of rebirth and optimism speak to people from all walks of life.
This event is celebrated globally even by individuals of other faiths, though not officially a bank holiday in England, it is celebrated in many cities with parades in Trafalgar square. The main day is officially a public holiday in many countries such as India, Singapore, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and even the United states
Who Celebrates Diwali?
Diwali is celebrated by millions of people around the world, it goes beyond the religion of a particular people, bridging cultural and geographic divides. Despite being predominantly a Hindu celebration, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists all have their own interpretation of the Diwali festivals, each connecting it to their own spiritual and historical traditions.
Diwali has a strong religious foundation for Hindus, backed by stories of legends, especially Rama’s victorious return to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana following a 14-year exile and his triumph over Ravana, the demon king. The festival’s main theme is the victory of good over evil—is symbolized by this tale.
The Jains observe Diwali as the day Lord Mahavira attains moksha which is the liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Lord Mahavira was the 24th Tirthankara, who is regarded as the savior and sovereign preacher of the righteous path.
The Sikhs celebrate Diwali to commemorate the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 other princes put in prison by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. A moment set aside as “the Day of Liberation”. For Buddhists, especially those from Nepal who observe the Newar tradition, Diwali signifies the conversion to Buddhism of Emperor Ashoka, symbolizing a commitment to tolerance. They also celebrate Diwali by worshipping Lakshmi the goddess of wealth. And finally the Hindus of eastern India and Bangladesh celebrate by worshipping the goddess of knowledge, Kalika.
People from a wide range of backgrounds now celebrate Diwali as a cultural event, transcending religious communities. People all over the world can relate to this festival because of its universal themes of light, hope, and renewal, which promote peace and happiness.
History of Diwali in the United Kingdom
The origins of Diwali dates back to over 2500 years. It has its origins in ancient Indian customs and writings with each faith attributing its own historical significance to the festival. It is usually linked to the epic “Ramayana” in Hindu mythology, where Lord Rama’s victory against evil is extolled. Diwali’s worldwide appeal as a festival signifying freedom, enlightenment, and unity is further shown by historical records of the celebration in Sikhism and Jainism.
In the UK, Diwali has been celebrated since the 1950s and 60s when many Sikhs and Hindus from India and East Africa started migrating to the UK and settling in cities like Leicester. The festival has grown over time, with more people celebrating and more communities participating. Even King Charles famously attended a Diwali celebration at a prominent Hindu temple in the UK while he was still a prince.
Historically, Diwali also aligns with the harvest season in India, marking the end of the summer crop cycle and the beginning of the new harvest season. It has long been seen as a time to thank the gods, celebrate prosperity, and prepare for the new year.
The shared essence across these varied histories is the celebration of light, renewal, and the victory of righteousness, making Diwali a festival that resonates universally.
How Do People Celebrate Diwali?
The five-day festival is celebrated every year around the middle of October to the Early November which coincides with the new moon according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar. Millions of people around the world celebrate the festival of lights in many different ways with joy, food and of course lights as the central theme. Each of the five days of the celebration has its own rituals and significance with the climax being the third day when the night is darkest. Some of the ways the people celebrate Diwali include:
- Cleaning and Decorating
Weeks before Diwali, families start cleaning their homes thoroughly in preparation for the holiday in order to welcome wealth and good vibes. Beautiful decorations, such as colorful rangoli patterns on the floor, made from dry rice flour, powdered limestone, flowers, or colored powders, are then used to decorate homes.
2. Lighting Diyas and Hanging Decorative Lights
Lighting oil lamps known as diyas and candles is a major part of Diwali celebrations, signifying the victory of light over darkness. More recently, homes and streets are also illuminated by ornamental LED lights, which produce a stunning ambiance. Many families hang these lights outside their homes as early as five days before the commencement of the festival.
3. Worship Rituals and Prayers
Rituals and prayers are an important part of the celebration. Devotees perform Lakshmi Puja to offer prayers to the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Lakshmi. They also perform rituals to other gods and goddesses, like Lord Ganesha. Devotees donate flowers and candies, sing hymns, and repeat prayers in magnificently lit temples. Hindus especially, have a ritual oil bath at dawn on each day of the festival.
4. Feasting and Sharing Sweets
A major focus of Diwali celebrations is food, families participate in feasts and sharing mithai – traditional sweets and confectionery of the Indian Subcontinent. Along with savory snacks, families cook and share a range of traditional sweets, like laddoos, barfis, and jalebis. Special holiday dinners promote community and love by bringing people together.
5. Exchanging Gifts
The exchange of gifts is a significant part of Diwali, many individuals send Diwali greeting cards to family members far and near. Giving and receiving gifts builds relationships and represents kindness. Gifts show appreciation and love and usually consist of candies, dried fruits, ornaments, and boxes of Indian sweets and confectionery.
6. Fireworks and Festivities
Diwali is often associated with festivities and fireworks. It’s a wonderful ritual, especially for kids, to burst crackers and watch the night sky light up with colorful displays. The fireworks produce a magical atmosphere and represent the triumph of light over darkness.
7. Community Parades
Diwali is not just celebrated in individual homes alone, it is a community affair, it is a time for homecoming and bonding for many. Public areas are illuminated, and markets are teeming with bustle. Many communities organize parades, music and dance performances in parks and public squares. Diwali festival is indeed a time for collective prayers, cultural performances, and festivities that bring communities closer.
8. Acts of Kindness
Giving back is another aspect of Diwali. Many people perform charitable deeds, such as giving food and clothing to the less fortunate or making donations to them. The festival’s theme of spreading joy and light is reflected in this custom.
From illuminating homes to exchanging gifts and indulging in festive feasts, Diwali unites people in a celebration of life’s blessings, the victory of light over darkness, welcoming prosperity and goodwill and generally encouraging a culture of community and gratitude.
25 Unique Diwali Gifts
Let’s dive into these 25 Diwali gifts ideas to celebrate the festival of lights and make your celebrations more memorable. From personalized goods to jewelries and carefully selected hampers, you are guaranteed to find something your loved ones will cherish.
- Engraved Diyas
Customized engraved Diya oil lamps are a great gift to celebrate Diwali. You can engrave the person’s initials or custom intricate patterns to make it more unique. Many Indian homes and workspaces are adorned with diya lamps during the celebrations making it a very appropriate gift.
- Scented Candles
The triumph of light over darkness is the central theme of Diwali festivities. Scented candles improve the ambience in a home. Make sure to choose fragrances that resonate with the person you’re giving them to.
- Silver Lakshmi and Ganesha Coins
Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth and Ganesha is the god of wisdom are both celebrated during Diwali festival, giving your family and friends silver coins with their inscription is a great way to commemorate the celebrations.
- Traditional Indian outfit
Traditional Indian sarees or kurta that is hand-beaded with beautiful embroidery designs will standout any day
- Diwali gift cards
For the times you are unsure of what gift to buy, you can give gift vouchers so that the person can use it to purchase what he/she really wants.
- Handcrafted Rangoli Kit
Rangoli kits are appropriate for those who are artistic and like to be creative. This is a gift that children will particularly enjoy
- Pashmina
A pashmina in a lovely fabric and exotic design can be used to wrap for a lovely dinner dress.
- A box of Sweets and Confectionaries
One of the major focus of Diwali is food and sweets get a box mithai containing different sweets and traditional Indian snacks
- Festive Hampers
A hamper that is carefully selected to include Diwali festive items like scented candles, sweets, chocolates and wine is an ideal gift.
- Mini Lakshmi Ganesha idol
A Lakshmi Ganesha idol made from aluminum or brass with a well-designed plate for puja is a meaningful Diwali gift that will linger in the heart of the recipient.
- Tea Set
A complete tea set that should also include a blend of carefully selected teas to make desserts more memorable.
- A box of dried fruits
A collection of dried fruits and nuts like almonds, cashews, pistachios, walnuts and raisins beautifully arranged in a box or hamper
- Personalized jewelry
Diwali is all about strengthening bonds. Customize jewelry by engraving a name or initials on it to celebrate the special people in your life during the Diwali festivities.
- Handwoven Rugs and Mats
Get a brightly colored handwoven rug or mat with intricate designs to make the home more colorful and welcoming.
- Aromatic Incense Sticks
Diwali is a celebration marked by worship and rituals, giving someone aromatic incense sticks to burn during their prayers is a very symbolic and thoughtful gift.
- Customized LED lamps
As the name implies it’s the festival of lights, what better way to celebrate your friends and family than by giving them customized LED or solar lamps to help light up their homes and chase darkness away.
- Hand-painted Cookie Jars
Treats are a huge part of Diwali celebrations. A hand painted cookie jar will be a lovely addition to every family.
- Kitchen Ware
Food is a high point of Diwali festivities, giving someone a set of kitchen ware that includes pots and maybe customized wine glasses shows them you are giving a practical and thoughtful gift.
- Decorative Wall Hanging
A beautiful painting that symbolizes what Diwali celebrations stand for is a unique gift.
- Spice Hampers
Indians love spices and not just them, but most people from the Indian subcontinent. Arrange a selection of different spices in a basket. This will make a perfect gift, especially for families. Herbs and spices like masala, cumin and turmeric should be included.
- Candle Holders
Candles and lights are a big part of Diwali celebrations, for candle holders, there are many designs to choose from, ensuring that the one you choose will be considered an ideal Diwali gift for the recipient.
- Custom Photo Frames
A wooden picture framed with Diwali-themed designs.
- Chocolate Boxes
Sweets and savory treats are a huge part of Diwali celebrations. Giving your family and friends a Diwali gift consisting of a box of assorted chocolates will surely make them happy.
- Books
Books that talk about the history and spiritual significance of the festival of lights is an ideal gift, especially for younger people who may not understand the importance of Diwali celebrations.
- Handmade Pottery Items
Handmade Pottery Items like flower vases and bowls will serve a lasting reminder of the festivities and what it represents.
Why is Diwali Referred to as the Festival of Lights?
Diwali is known as the Festival of Lights because it highlights the symbolic victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and hope over despair. The festival’s customs revolve around illumination, with homes and streets decked out with candles, colorful decorative lights, and diyas (oil lamps). This custom dates back to the ancient tale of Lord Rama’s triumph over the demon king Ravana and his return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile, when the city was joyfully lit up to greet him.
Beyond its legendary origins, the burning of lamps and candles symbolizes the illumination and spiritual awakening that are at the heart of Diwali. Light unites people in a common celebration of rebirth and optimism, acting as a universal symbol for knowledge, purity, and wealth for the many communities that participate in the event.
Diwali is a perfect occasion to create memories, share love and spread joy. You can make the festival of lights truly memorable for your loved ones by choosing one of these unique gift suggestions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diwali Gifts
- What is the significance of giving gifts during Diwali?
Diwali gifts symbolize love, respect, and blessings for prosperity and happiness. - What are some traditional Diwali gifts?
Common traditional gifts include sweets, dry fruits, silver coins, diyas (lamps), and Lakshmi-Ganesh idols. - Are personalized gifts a good idea for Diwali?
Yes, personalized gifts add a unique and thoughtful touch, making the receiver feel special. - Can you suggest some luxury gifts for Diwali?
Luxury gifts could include designer jewelry, gourmet hampers, premium gadgets, or branded home accessories. - What are some budget-friendly but unique Diwali gifts?
Handmade candles, personalized keychains, small potted plants, or DIY gift hampers are affordable yet thoughtful options. - What are popular corporate Diwali gifts?
Customized diaries, branded gift hampers, eco-friendly office supplies, and premium chocolates are great options. - How can businesses make their Diwali gifts stand out?
Adding a personalized note, choosing unique packaging, and including eco-friendly or innovative items can make gifts stand out. - Is it appropriate to give money as a Diwali gift?
Yes, giving money (often in decorative envelopes) is a traditional and accepted practice during Diwali. - Are there any items I should avoid gifting on Diwali?
Avoid gifting black-colored items, sharp objects, or anything that symbolizes bad luck according to traditional beliefs. - Is there a specific time to give gifts during Diwali?
Gifts are usually exchanged before or on the first day of the festival, though it can vary based on individual customs. - How important is packaging for Diwali gifts?
Packaging plays a crucial role as it reflects thoughtfulness. Festive-themed wrapping enhances the appeal. - Should I include a greeting card with the gift?
Yes, a greeting card adds a personal touch and conveys your heartfelt wishes for the festival.