Diwali, the festival of lights, is not just about lamps, fireworks, and decorations. It is also a festival of food. Families across India prepare a variety of dishes, both sweet and savoury, to celebrate prosperity, happiness, and togetherness. Every region has its own flavours, recipes, and rituals that make the festival special.
Food plays a big role in Diwali’s story as well. When Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, his homecoming was celebrated with grand feasts and sweets. This tradition of cooking and sharing festive food continues to this day. Preparing food at home is seen as a way to spread joy, honour tradition, and share blessings with others.
In modern times, many people have also started avoiding shop-bought sweets due to concerns of adulteration during the festive rush. Homemade food has become more popular, as it not only ensures purity but also adds a personal touch. Cooking together and sharing those treats is itself an act of celebration.
Snacks and Sweets: The Heart of Diwali
Diwali food is incomplete without snacks. Crispy, crunchy, spicy, and sweet—every flavour finds a place on the festive table. Families prepare jars full of treats that can be stored for days and shared with neighbours and guests.
For many, it is the snacks that bring the most joy. From savoury mixtures to puffed delicacies, they set the tone of the season. Alongside them, rich sweets dripping with ghee and sugar syrup carry the essence of prosperity
North India: A Feast of Rich Sweets and Savory Delights
In North India, Diwali is marked by grandeur, music, and lots of food cooked in ghee. The aroma of mithai fills the streets and homes.
Gujia - This sweet dumpling is stuffed with khoya, coconut, and dry fruits, then fried until golden. Some dip it in sugar syrup for extra sweetness.
Babru - A crispy delight made of wheat flour and jaggery, it is fried to perfection and enjoyed with evening tea.
Alongside these, you will also find stacks of jalebi, laddoo, and mathri, all prepared in advance for family gatherings.
West India: Flavours of Prosperity
Western India, especially Gujarat and Maharashtra, celebrates Diwali with a mix of sweet and spicy bites. Families often prepare snacks in bulk so they can be distributed to friends and relatives.
Shankarpali - Diamond-shaped bites made of flour, sugar, and ghee. They are fried until golden and stored in tins for days.
Karanji - Similar to gujia, but often filled with coconut and jaggery, giving it a rustic, homely flavour.
In Gujarat, farsan like chakli, sev, and chevdo are also popular, adding a savoury balance to the sweet feast.
South India: A Symphony of Tastes
In South India, the Diwali feast has its own distinct character. Here, the balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy dishes is celebrated.
Murukku - A crunchy spiral-shaped snack made with rice flour and urad dal flour. Its crispiness is unmatched.
Manoharam - A festive sweet made with rice flour, jaggery, and ghee. It has a simple, earthy taste that reflects tradition.
Families also prepare payasam (sweet pudding) in various forms, which is considered auspicious.
East India: Sweet Sensations
When it comes to sweets, no one can compete with East India, especially Bengal. Diwali here is another chance for sweet-makers to showcase their craft.
Rasgulla - Spongy cheese balls soaked in syrup. They are soft, juicy, and melt in the mouth.
Sandesh - A delicacy made from paneer, flavoured with saffron or cardamom, and decorated with nuts.
Alongside these, kalakand and chomchom the Bihar, UP, bengal belt are also enjoyed.
Central India: Rustic and Rich Delights
The central part of India has its own unique dishes that are hearty and filling. These reflect the earthy charm of the region.
Poha Chivda - Made by roasting flattened rice with peanuts, curry leaves, and spices. It is light yet flavourful, and perfect for snacking.
Malpua - Pancake-like sweets made from flour, milk, and banana or pineapple, fried and soaked in syrup. Rich and indulgent, malpua is often served with rabri for extra sweetness.
A Changing Tradition: Health and Homemade Goodness
One noticeable trend in recent years is the shift towards healthier and homemade versions of Diwali food. Many families now replace refined sugar with jaggery, or deep-frying with baking and air-frying. Nuts, dry fruits, and healthier flours are being used more often.
This does not mean the festival is losing its charm. On the contrary, it shows that traditions can adapt without losing their essence. The joy of making and sharing food remains the same.
Food as a Symbol of Sharing
In the end, Diwali food is not just about taste. It is about togetherness. The act of exchanging boxes of sweets, inviting neighbours for tea, or cooking with family members is what makes the festival special. Each snack or sweet carries the warmth of love and blessings.
From the rich sweets of the North to the crispy snacks of the South, Diwali brings India’s diversity to the dining table. Every bite tells a story of tradition, culture, and celebration.
Food has always been central to Diwali’s spirit, and it continues to be so today. Sharing food is sharing joy, and that is what Diwali is truly about.