SOUTH-ASIAN OWNED BUSINESSES TO SHOP WITH THIS DIWALI
Celebrated worldwide by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, Diwali (or Deepavali) symbolises the triumph of light over darkness.
Different religions, regions, and families have their own traditions for this festival, ranging from worship to the lighting of decorative lamps, fireworks, feasting, and the exchange of gifts.
At a time when the world seems to be in such turmoil, we want to take this moment to find the light through the darkness and hope that all of us are able to do the same soon.
If you’re buying gifts or hosting a gathering this festive season, we’ve curated a selection of South Asian-owned brands to consider supporting.
Founded by father-daughter duo Siva and Aarabhi, these colourful pieces are designed in London and handmade by artisans in India. We love the intricate designs and the variety on offer - from shorts and blazers to jumpsuits and dresses. The Kōr collection includes an array of basics, while their occasionwear offering has something for weddings to night outs and everything in between!
Bilingual books and learning blocks in a selection of South Asian languages. Based in Canada, founder Dhvani fully gets the challenges of raising children away from your homeland. From teaching them the language to the cultural traditions and rich heritage - it can seem like a lot to navigate. Through Bright Bandar, she hopes that parents can use their products to help them on this journey.
Drape Me London specializes in creating everyday pieces with a cultural flare. Each tote is handmade with care, using eco-friendly materials and vibrant, traditional fabrics that add a unique touch to every piece. We love their bespoke service where customers can send in their sentimental fabrics to be transformed into custom tote bags, giving cherished memories new life in a wearable form.
A UK-based jewellery and accessory design brand that effortlessly blends South Asian influences with trailblazing design. We love her bold and colourful designs, and the work she does to amplify stories and histories of adornment. Her recent Shakti collection is packed with eye-catching statement jewellery pieces, or take a look at her Jāli collection for some home decor pieces.
Meera makes hand-painted dinner candles inspired by Indian cultural motifs such as rangoli and diyas (clay lamps). A lovely addition to your Diwali tablescape, or to gift hosts and loved ones this festive season. ‘Haath’ is the Hindi word for Hands where, Meera says, her creativity unfolds. We love the elegant designs and handmade element to these candles!
Rani & Co is the brainchild of Ramona Gohil who set up a feel-good, feminist jewellery brand. From the Hindu Goddess necklace collection to the Aphrodite’s Pearl collection and more, Rani & Co creates versatile, easy-to-wear pieces. We love Ramona’s candour online, sharing her business and personal trials and triumphs to show the hard work that goes into building her brand, as well as educating aspiring business owners on what the journey could look like.
Founded by Chandani Kaur Kohli, Biskut Bar is inspired by the South Asian concept of ‘moo mitha’ (sweetening the mouth) which is when sweet treats are given to celebrate milestones or festivals. We love the nostalgic vibe of her packaging - with this limited edition tin designed by illustrator Kushiaania. Inside are Biskuts inspired by traditional Indian flavours from Haldi Dudh (turmeric milk) to Coconut Laddoo and many more.
This demi-fine luxury jewellery brand is founded by sisters Natasha and Sheena, who were captivated by jewellery from a young age, having watched their grandmothers adorn themselves everyday. Their beautiful pieces are perfect for everyday wear. We love their designs - from delicate ear studs to gemstone-studded rings and necklaces. A gorgeous addition to any outfit.
Small-batch Indian snacks packaged in beer cans! Perfect this Diwali if you’re hosting or giving a gift. We love the fun brand name and aesthetic, but more than that, we love their story: founders Ruby and Steve are second-generation Indians who once had a customs officer joke that they were ‘Curry Smuggling’ when they returned from India with bags packed with spices! Bonus points for the recyclable packaging, too.
Oh-so-cute sleepsuits, pyjamas and blankets with South Asian prints. Founded by Emma and Ravi, who are on a mission to celebrate South Asian cultures and empower kids through unique designs. They currently have a handful of gorgeous designs: rickshaws, jalebi and the dancers (showing Brown girls in lehengas and Punjabi suits 🥺). Plus they have final pieces of their Diya and Elephant embroidered suits too!
Kulfi Beauty is a vegan, cruelty-free and clean beauty brand that celebrates the joy of self-expression. Founder Priyanka Ganjoo wanted to build a beauty brand that made South Asian consumers feel seen, and so Kulfi (named after the colourful South Asian ice cream) came to be. We love the shade ranges of their various products, and the fun names - like the First Sari lip oil and the Nazar No More eyeliner.
With 2 Guinness World Records for fastest Henna artist, Pavan was the first to bring Henna bars to the UK high street, from Selfridges to Topshop and more. Her online range of Henna cones includes the traditional brown or black (Jagua) and more contemporary colours like neons, glitters and even a unicorn cone! It is the perfect activity to have at your Diwali party this year.