Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated festivals across India and beyond. It’s not just about lighting diyas, decorating homes, and exchanging gifts; it’s also about celebrating culinary heritage and tradition. So, whether you’re a seasoned Diwali celebrator or simply curious to learn more about this wonderful festival, Mahatma® Rice is here with 5 delicious meal ideas to cook for each day of Diwali. These delightful Diwali recipes are the perfect way to mark the bright and beautiful occasion.
Understanding Diwali
Diwali is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrated not only in India but also in many countries worldwide. At its core, it symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. A five-day festival, it usually falls in the months of October or November, based on the Hindu lunar calendar. All in all, Diwali is a time of joy, renewal, family gatherings, feasting, and spiritual reflection.
Day 1: Dhanteras
Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali and emphasizes wealth, abundance, and prosperity. The day calls for a dish that has both depth in flavor and texture, and that’s what makes this Tandoori Chicken Skillet the ideal meal to prepare. Creamy and fragrant, it features succulent chicken thighs marinated to perfection in Greek yogurt and traditional Indian spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Don’t be put off by the cook time for this dish; our step-by-step recipe will guide you through the process with ease. What’s more, the end result is well worth the wait.
Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi
Celebrates the victory of good over evil; typically, homes are decorated with bright colors and additional lights. That’s why day 2 calls for a vibrant dish that’s exploding with flavor. Enter our Masala Khidchi dish. This quick and easy veggie-forward recipe will set the tone for your celebration. Made with Mahatma® Ready-to-Heat Basmati Rice, it boasts a medley of delicious ingredients such as red lentils, toasted peanuts, carrots, peas, and green beans that’s sure to brighten up your family’s day.
Day 3: Lakshmi Puja
The most important day of the festival, it honors the Goddess Lakshmi and is celebrated by lighting diyas, exchanging gifts, and enjoying a lavish feast— and that’s where our irresistible Keema Pulao recipe comes in. This aromatic, ground beef dish is perfect for sharing at large gatherings. Serve it with some simple Indian side dishes like onion bhajis, pakoras, and samosas, and you’ve got an authentic Diwali feast.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja
The fourth day of Diwali is all about expressing gratitude to nature. Traditionally, people prepare vegetarian dishes to mark the occasion, and that’s what makes this Sri Lankan Rice the perfect dish to prepare. A light and fluffy meal flavored with coconut milk, crispy dried onions, fresh chopped cilantro, and a whole host of herbs and spices for added aroma, it’s sure to dazzle vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Day 5 – Bhai Dooj
The last day of Diwali celebrates family, with particular emphasis placed on the bond between brothers and sisters. What better way to wrap up your Diwali celebration than with a sweet dessert that’s quick and easy to make and ideal for sharing? This kheer-inspired Coconut Rice Pudding is a creamy and comforting dessert that’s sure to please everyone at your gathering.
Hosting a Diwali-Themed Gathering
Hosting a Diwali-themed gathering can be warm, vibrant, and memorable! Getting friends and family involved is a great way to build excitement. Here are a few tips on how you can enhance your celebration.
Atmosphere & Decor
- Lighting: Diwali is the festival of lights, after all, so use lots of diyas (oil lamps), string lights, and candles. Place them along pathways, windowsills, and tables.
Rangoli: Create colorful rangoli patterns at the entrance using powdered colors, flower petals, or rice. - Colors: Go for bright hues like gold, red, orange, and deep blue in tablecloths, cushions, and drapes.
- Flowers: Marigold garlands and fresh flowers instantly bring in festive vibes.
- Music: Curate a playlist that draws from both traditional Diwali music and popular Bollywood hits.
- Gift Exchange: Similar to Secret Santa, but with Diwali treats or decor items.
Make the Most of Diwali
Like all cultural celebrations, Diwali is centered around expressions of love, gratitude, and goodwill. It’s also about gathering friends, family, and everyone you hold dear for good food cooked with tender, loving care. However you celebrate Diwali, just make sure your culinary creativity shines.
For more cooking tips and exciting new recipes, stop by our kitchen and see what we’ve been cooking.