It’s that time of year again: homes are all lit up, people are <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://thenodmag.com/content/best-kurtas-saris-indianwear-diwali-handbook-2024-festive-season">dressed in their festive best</a>, friendly obscenities are hurled across card <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://thenodmag.com/content/diwali-handbook-games-card-party-alternatives">tables</a>, and the air is thick with music—but also smog and firecrackers. This is the time when pet owners across the country start scrambling for ideas on how to get away from it all. While debates around the animal-friendliness of Diwali (or lack thereof) rage every year, there is hope in the form of beautiful homestays and resorts that are close enough to major cities for a road trip, but isolated enough to offer peace and quiet. Below, our list of places to book if you want a quiet, cracker-free Diwali break with your furry buddy, full of nature walks and starry night skies.<h2>Dune Eco Village &amp; Spa, Pondicherry</h2><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1080/735;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/IG_duneecovillageandspa_aff2e1988c.jpg" alt="IG @duneecovillageandspa.jpg|caption|" width="1080" height="735"><figcaption>&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>Less than a three-hour drive from Chennai, this 35-acre beach resort doubles up as a wellness centre and organic farm, so there’s plenty of open space for your pet to roam free. Choose from 62 rooms and suites, some of which come with a private pool (your dog can enjoy a dip, too). Pay a visit to the cows—they’re used to visitors and get along with most dogs. A typical day at Dune may involve meditation, yoga, a cow-milking tutorial, a pottery class, and a swim in the solar-heated pool. You could also use the holiday to detox by signing up for their Ayurvedic programme, which includes consultations with doctors as well as therapies and massages. A bonus is the food, which is certified organic and made with ingredients from the farm. If you want to take a stroll around the property, the resident dog, Charlie, who will greet you at reception, might even join you.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://dunewellnessgroup.com/dune-eco-village-spa/">Website</a>; from ₹5,500. Pets stay for free<h2>Tree of Life Resort &amp; Spa, Jaipur</h2><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1440/1800;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/IG_2_treeofliferesortsandhotels_460907b0fd.jpg" alt="IG2 @treeofliferesortsandhotels.jpg|caption|" width="1440" height="1800"><figcaption>&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>A boutique resort experience that’s equal parts luxe and rustic is on offer at this seven-acre haven of lush green wilderness that’s less than an hour from Jaipur city. The 14 villas all come with their own private lawns and pool, spa, outdoor shower and sunken bathtub—and you can request special bedding for your pet. Your pup has some access to the pool as well—though make sure to double check timings at the front desk. You might also be restricted to the al fresco dining section if you’d like to bring your pet to dinner—but your pooch can enjoy a specially curated menu plus ample space to run around. The resort also organises tractor rides and hikes specially for pets, so there’s no shortage of ways to keep them entertained.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://treeofliferesorts.com/">Website</a>; from ₹17,500, ₹2950 per pet<h2>The Lilac Farm, Bengaluru</h2><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1080/810;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/IG_1_the_lilac_farm_c4b3893248.jpg" alt="IG1 @the.lilac.farm.jpg|caption|" width="1080" height="810"><figcaption>&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>Run by a mother-daughter duo who are dedicated to cruelty-free, conscious living, this farmstay, an hour from Bengaluru, runs on principles of clean energy and zero waste. It’s a no-frills experience, so you won’t find a spa or a jacuzzi here, but there is a natural pond and mud pool that you and your pet can get messy in. During your stay, you’re welcome to try your hand at farming with the staff. The place is also a rescue shelter for animals—from cows and ponies to dogs, hens, and even guinea pigs—so your dog has plenty of company if they’re feeling social. Alcohol, smoking, and non-vegetarian food (except for pets) are strictly prohibited on the property. Note that amenities here are minimal, and you will have to bring your own pet food.From ₹3,000, inclusive of three meals. Pets stay for free<h2>Annapara Home Stay, Wayanad</h2><img src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/IG_1_annaparahomestay_049f5a5ffe.jpeg" alt="IG1 @annaparahomestay.jpeg|caption|">About two hours away from Kozhikode, the seven-key property is all about the wilderness. While Diwali fireworks may not be an issue for most pets in Kerala anyway, given that celebrations in the state are relatively quiet, the holiday weekend is as good an excuse as any to take your pooch out of the city and into the lap of nature. There are plenty of trails through tea and coffee plantations, some of which include natural waterfalls and streams they can splash around in. The property is dotted with swings and hammocks that are perfect for an an afternoon with a book in your lap and your dog by your side. The only sounds you’ll hear here are birdsong and the distant calls of deer and elephants. And while pets aren’t allowed in the dining area, the staff at Annapara is happy to prepare chicken and rice for your dog on request.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://annaparahomestay.com/">Website</a>; doubles from ₹7,200, ₹900 per pet<h2>Fernandeswadi, Uran</h2><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1728/2304;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/IMG_20221122_172330_8a7574f40c.jpg" alt="IMG_20221122_172330.jpg|caption|" width="1728" height="2304"><figcaption>&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>This boutique farm stay by the Arabian Sea, a short drive from the heart of Mumbai, is an idyllic two-acre bungalow set in the middle of a coconut grove. Run by a couple (and their adorable indie, Coconut) who wanted to live a sustainable, farm-to-table life away from the city, the three-bedroom stay offers the best mix of urban comfort and rustic living. Its architecture is based on a design by legendary architect Charles Correa, so expect a lot of well-framed views, cosy nooks, and golden-hour lighting (great for selfies with your pooch). The property includes an outdoor barbecue area, a chlorine-free pool (pets welcome), and direct access to the beach. Only the ground floor of the bungalow is pet-friendly—but that still gives your doggo plenty of room to frolic around.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.airbnb.co.in/rooms/31427743?source_impression_id=p3_1723282180_P3jquakKbwL6C4Zk&amp;fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZYmTOLe8FTWZnMceb4MqN-uAlGQR86DX8n5fmU5bZuLKg6N6RCvp3-rvc_aem_xhBLt5HtgGeQRzrvMU-TYA&amp;check_in=2024-10-31&amp;guests=1&amp;adults=1&amp;check_out=2024-11-03">Website</a>; from ₹11,000 for the pet-friendly Private Balcāo Suite, ₹30,000 for the whole bungalow, ₹500 per pet<h2>The Apple Farm Stay, Shimla</h2><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1440/1672;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/IG_1_theapplefarmstay_8c6abbeefa.jpeg" alt="IG1 @theapplefarmstay.jpeg|caption|" width="1440" height="1672"><figcaption>&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>Nothing says getaway like driving eight hours from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://thenodmag.com/tag/delhi">New Delhi</a>, climbing 7,000ft above sea level and throwing yourself deep into the heart of Himachal. Named after the apple orchards that surround it, this heritage property was built in 1916, and has been preserved almost as it was ever since. The property is built more like a home than a resort, with the owners living on the top floor, so the villa is best suited for groups who can book out the entire ground floor—which includes three rooms plus living and dining, and a cosy fireplace. An in-house cook will introduce you to local pahadi delicacies, and dog food is available on request. Spend your time enjoying barbeques, picnics, bonfire nights, and long walks in the apple orchards with your pet, who might also enjoy a splash in the river.Website; from ₹9,500 for the ground floor of the villa, or ₹6,500 for one room. A refundable security deposit of ₹5,000 is applicable for the pet, plus an additional ₹500 cleaning charge. Dog food is available on request

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Last-minute pet-friendly escapes to book this Diwali for every pocket

Good boy holiday

Party season is now officially upon us and before you know it, it’ll be December with all its end-of-year soirées and reunions. Attending a dozen (or more) gatherings through this last stretch of the year is tiring already, so getting dressed shouldn’t feel like another task. The smartest way to go about shopping during this period is not stocking up on things you’ll wear once and forget about after the festivities are over, but items you can wear through the year.Sequins may seem like an obvious choice, but that shouldn’t stop you from wearing them. Few things are more impactful than diamonds, or a crystal-studded bag that you can use for every Diwali party or wedding during the season, and for weekends out later on.As for clothes, consider pieces that you see yourself wearing to a card party and also to grab drinks with friends or while on holiday. Like a kaftan-style dress that goes right down to the floor—it’s an investment that can be dressed up or down for all manners of events.If you’re going for a more pared-down route, complementing your outfit with the right accessories is essential. For example, a pair of delicate heels that you can pair not only with a slinky sari, but a slip dress or jeans, too. Remember, it’s all about balance. Below, see the best fashion girl-coded items to invest in right now, handpicked by The Nod’s style desk.

AK OK Slip Dress with Trouser and Crop top

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Leheriya set_De Castro_TheNodMag

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Rabanne iconic silver 1969 Moon Bag with metallic pampilles

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Black Satin Crystal-Embellished Heeled Mules by Charles and Keith

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Gold Diwalina Heels from Christian Louboutin

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A necklace featuring hearts and moons by Anu Merton

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A diamond-studded crescent shaped pin by Mahesh Notandass

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A delicate diamond necklace by Maison Aneka

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Model Manya Mitra in a blue kaftan dress by Sangita Kilachand

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How to ‘fashion girl’ your festive wardrobe

The Nod Shop

The thing about hosting a Diwali party is that you’ll have some people who are all in for a night of cards, and some who just aren’t. Even within seasoned taash players, there are hardcore teen patti fans (for whom it’s practically a sin not to play during Diwali), while others prefer variations in poker. But what do you do with those who aren’t quite ready to put all their money on the table just yet? What if, and hear me out, you turn the whole scene into Variety Game Night? Why not set up a whole bunch of different games so that everyone finds something to do, and no one has to suffer small talk at the bar, or lose money because they can’t tell a club from a spade (speaking from experience).That’s not to say you should bring out your Monopoly board at dinner or bore your guests with the rules of Catan—but I’ve never complained about a party that had a foosball table or a chess set sitting around, ready to facilitate a night of bonding between strangers.&nbsp;So, if you’re playing host this Diwali—for a card party or otherwise—consider throwing some other games into the mix. There’s <a href="https://samstoy.in/hi/products/uno-no-mercy-family-card-game-168-cards?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMI38KD1urviQMVRqNmAh2PnhJ5EAQYAiABEgKdNfD_BwE">Uno No Mercy</a>, which is all the rage right now, if your friendships can handle it—or you could take things up a notch, and turn your card party into a game night like no other.Over the past few years, interior designers have started to reimagine traditional board games with their artisanal design: SHED showcased an inlaid marble <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C24IYGYIuCG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==">Carrom board</a> at the AD Design Show this year, Material Immaterial brought a <a href="https://india.materialimmaterial.com/products/arena?variant=39408730832994">Roman amphitheatre-inspired chess set</a> to ID Mumbai that looked like it was straight out of Star Wars, and PortsideCafé reimagined a <a href="https://portsidecafeshop.com/products/backgammon-set">Backgammon</a> set in a mid-century aesthetic that’s refreshingly contemporary. So, if you really want to take things up a notch at your Diwali party this year, lay out a couple of these games that triple as collector’s items, conversations starters, and a great source of entertainment. And let the games begin.

A guaranteed conversation starter, this contemporary Indian take on the classic foosball table features a rustic wooden frame with a strikingly graphic stone inlay.&nbsp;Available on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/outoftheshed_/">custom order</a>.

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Foosball table by SHED

This stripped-down rendition of Ludo, custom-created in terrazzo, forgoes the game’s signature primary colours for monochrome, and differentiates pieces by shape instead.Available on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/avvoarchitects/">custom order</a>.

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Ludo by Parman Designs and Avvo Architects

This vertical chess set is crafted in wood and structured as two separate planes connected by a wormhole. This isn’t your grandma’s chessboard, instructions included.Prices start from Rs. 1,40,000. Order <a href="https://www.xyzdesigns.xyz/copy-of-divergent-table-6">here</a>.&nbsp;

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Warp Wing chess set by XYZ Designs

Light and simple, yet sophisticated, this wooden pool table pares back the traditional design while elevating its aesthetic form. It’s basically a sculpture you can host a tournament on.Price on Request. Order <a href="https://objectswithnarratives.com/products/ara-pooltable?srsltid=AfmBOorT7w2abYS7I_a6pJ54JbxvxGeEhl61XhQfl90EphvSz4GR9F8c">here</a>.

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Ara Pool Table by Tim Vranken

This impossible little puzzle is really a feat of spatial design—it’s the sort of thing that’s bound to keep at least some of your guests entertained for hours.Price: Rs. 8,500. Buy it <a href="https://rareplayingcards.com/products/the-ultimate-puzzle?srsltid=AfmBOopG2egDSUwAgJOs526xTn59vC8mhOIK65QO_xp9R9aGRpiH9ZiI">here</a>.

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The Ultimate Puzzle

Finally, this game is pretty much a living room staple—especially if you grew up in India. Reimagined in Venetian leather and brass, this was is a delightful addition to your home for evenings that are not intensely competitive.&nbsp;Price on request. Order <a href="https://www.berluti.com/en-int/leather-solitaire-game/290991.html">here</a>.

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Solitaire Set by Berluti

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Suck at teen patti? These designer games can save you

Games people play

It is a truth universally acknowledged that Diwali is not easy on the pocket, unless you are counting on winning big at teen patti. The onset of the festive season is often filled with pressure to get that new, stylish, ‘big-ticket’ outfit—but it doesn’t have to be.As <a href="https://thenodmag.com/tag/sustainable-fashion">responsible shopping</a> grows into the most resilient trend of our times, the discerning fashionista knows to invest in standout yet versatile pieces that go beyond one festive season—items that not only shimmer alongside the Diwali lights but also work equally hard at other functions, hold court at stylish dinners, and spark conversations at (yet another) wedding reception. Designers, too, have taken note, steering their festive offerings towards fastidious craftsmanship that feels of-the-moment, but also lasts, teasing traditional codes in playful and yet welcome ways. Below, we’ve curated our favourite investment pieces for every budget.<h2>Under ₹1 lakh</h2>The sari: Arpita Mehta blue fire print ruffle sari set, ₹72,000Looking for a Diwali investment that you can wear to countless destination weddings later? This ruffled sari featuring a bold print with a mirrorwork blouse, is the perfect choice.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:814/1289;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Arpita_Mehta_blue_fire_print_ruffle_sari_set_The_Nod_Mag_3e0bf1655b.jpeg" alt="Arpita Mehta blue fire print ruffle sari set|caption|" width="814" height="1289"><figcaption>Shop on arpitamehtaofficial.com</figcaption></figure>The kurta set: Raw Mango Neerja kurta and Kanmani pants, ​​₹​74,800Fresh garlands—in their omnipresence yet impermanence—guide Raw Mango’s 2024 festive collection, and this embroidered brocade kurta is sure to turn heads. But don’t worry—with its bold ‘nimbu-mirchi’ colour combination, any bad vibes are guaranteed to stay far, far away.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1500/1875;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Raw_Mango_Neerja_Kurta_a7d4e7060f.jpg" alt="Raw Mango Neerja Kurta.jpg|caption|" width="1500" height="1875"><figcaption>Shop on rawmango.com</figcaption></figure>The lehenga: Anita Dongre Shirina skirt set​, ₹​85,000This set features a rustling, crinkled silk lehenga paired with a corset-style laced choli, delicately embroidered with floral and bird motifs. Demure, yet sexy.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1300/1950;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Anita_Dongre_SHIRINA_EMBROIDERED_MUL_SKIRT_SET_609ed12fd7.jpg" alt="A woman wearing a flowing black skirt and blouse by Anita Dongre|caption|" width="1300" height="1950"><figcaption>Shop on anitadongre.com</figcaption></figure>The bag: My Motifs Kama silver purse, ​₹​79,104A sterling silver purse can be the perfect complement to your festive outfit. With its delicate, ghungroo-adorned handle and intricate, tiled carvings, this minaudière is destined to become a cherished family heirloom. Just don’t try and fit anything more than your phone and lipstick in there.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1100/1376;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/My_Motif_Kama_Silver_Purse_fa77d6dc75.jpg" alt="My Motif Kama Silver Purse.jpg|caption|" width="1100" height="1376"><figcaption>Shop on mymotifs.com</figcaption></figure>The shoes: Gucci Heloise sandals, ₹85,056 (approx)You don’t need an excuse to slip into a decadent pair of crystal-embellished heels, but if you did, this is it! With this golden pair on, it’s clear who’s going to be the life of the party.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1570/1963;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Gucci_Heloise_crystal_embellished_metallic_leather_sandals_5ed78b2945.jpg" alt="Gucci Heloise crystal-embellished metallic leather sandals.jpg|caption|" width="1570" height="1963"><figcaption>Shop in store</figcaption></figure><h2>Under ₹50,000</h2>The sari: Anavila’s Payanam collection sari, ₹50,000 (approx)Inspired by the architecture of Chettinad, Anavila’s latest collection offers a fresh take on handwoven, chequered, and monochromatic linen. Her jewel-toned striped saris, draped elegantly across the chest, provide an exciting styling opportunity and a chance to own a tangible piece of heritage.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1500/2250;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Anavila_Sari_45ef0ec7a4.jpg" alt="An image from an Anavila campaign for the Payanam collection |caption|" width="1500" height="2250"><figcaption>Shop on anavila.com</figcaption></figure>The kurta set: Bhawna Sharma X Ekaya Banaras Gerum kurta set, ​₹​34,975Costume designer Bhawna Sharma recently collaborated with Ekaya Banaras to present a retro-inspired collection that is a print lover’s dream. Offering a playful take on houndstooth, this gold silk kurta set is an ideal choice in which to woo Lady Fortune.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1200/1600;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Bhawna_X_Ekaya_Gerum_Kurta_Set_b3b15625b7.jpg" alt="Bhawna X Ekaya Gerum Kurta Set|caption|" width="1200" height="1600"><figcaption>Shop on ekaya.in</figcaption></figure>The lehenga: Payal Khandwala silk skirt, ₹​34,800Our search for re-wearable and re-styleable lehengas led us to this minimalist, tailored silk number. Wear it with an itsy-bitsy choli or a flowy silk shirt—this is your quiet luxury staple. ​<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1016/1271;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Payal_Khandwala_Silk_Skirt_f5efc303cd.jpg" alt="Payal Khandwala Silk Skirt.jpg|caption|" width="1016" height="1271"><figcaption>Shop on payalkhandwala.com</figcaption></figure>The bag: Cult Gaia Ubah clutch, ​₹​50,000With its nautical seashell shape, supple leather, and classic gold hardware, this clutch’s refreshing design might just make it your go-to over your other trusted bags.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1117/1400;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Cult_Gaia_Ubah_Clutch_f8231ca6fb.jpg" alt="A black leather clutch by Cult Gaia|caption|" width="1117" height="1400"><figcaption>Shop on luxe.ajio.com</figcaption></figure>The shoes: Michael Kors Elodie sandals, ​₹​31,000You really can’t go wrong with a pair of black stilettos. These sandals, featuring a crystal-embellished flower, deliver a solid dose of sparkle that’ll keep you sailing through party season and beyond.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:654/819;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Michael_Kors_Elodie_Sandal_322f4e5b8d.jpg" alt="Black sandals featuring a crystal embellished flower by Michael Kors|caption|" width="654" height="819"><figcaption>Shop on michaelkors.com</figcaption></figure><h2>Under ₹25,000</h2>The sari: Cord Wallflower smocked sari, ​₹​18,000In very demure, very mindful fashion, a wispy, cottagecore-inspired outfit can subtly stand out amid all the glitter. With its charming smocking and delicate scalloping, Cord’s sari presents impressive artisanal value at its price point.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1700/2124;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Cord_Wallflower_Smocked_Saree_854fba8128.jpg" alt="Cord Wallflower Smocked Saree.jpg|caption|" width="1700" height="2124"><figcaption>Shop on cordstudio.in</figcaption></figure>The kurta set: Punit Balana kaftan kurta, ₹​19,500Much has been written about how the kaftan has transitioned from a beachside essential to a real option for more glamorous, evening affairs. This cheery, bandhani-printed satin silk version, with a flowing drape and asymmetrical hemline, is perfect if you want to join the movement. ​<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1000/1500;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Punit_Balana_Kaftan_Kurta_Set_282aad7bf6.jpg" alt="A woman in a yellow kaftan kurta set by Punit Balana|caption|" width="1000" height="1500"><figcaption>Shop on punitbalana.in</figcaption></figure>The lehenga: Saaksha &amp; Kinni set, ​₹​25,000If you love print and are in the market for a lehenga that can be worn across occasions—from a Diwali party to a beach holiday—now might be the perfect time to add a Saaksha &amp; Kinni piece to your wardrobe. With its geometric patterns and vibrant colours, this Chanderi lehenga opens up endless styling possibilities.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1620/2024;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Saaksha_Kinni_Bustier_Lehenga_and_Dupatta_7d92e39d46.jpg" alt="A model wearing an embroidered bustier and lehenga by Saaksha Kinni|caption|" width="1620" height="2024"><figcaption>Shop on saakshakinni.com</figcaption></figure>The bag: Torani Mehre Zarina potli, ₹24,500Torani’s latest couture collection has us lusting after the decadent potlis, each a showstopper in its own right. This cheeky, heart-shaped silk accessory, adorned with meticulous embroidery and playful tassels, might just be the exclamation mark your Diwali outfit needs.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:700/1050;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Torani_MEHRE_ZARINA_POTLI_ba2738cc07.jpg" alt="Torani MEHRE ZARINA POTLI.jpg|caption|" width="700" height="1050"><figcaption>Shop on torani.in</figcaption></figure>The shoes: Aprajita Toor Taama Ghanaa block heels, ​₹8,999Everyone’s (and we mean everyone’s) favourite Indian shoe designer, Aprajita Toor, has launched a line of embellished heels just in time for our many festive jaunts. This maroon pair can be a versatile base for all your Diwali and wedding season outfits.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1287/1608;" src="https://assets.thenodmag.com/website-assets/Aparajita_Toor_Tamaa_Ghanaa_Block_Heels_ebe79ab4a2.jpg" alt="Aparajita Toor Tamaa-Ghanaa-Block-Heels.jpg|caption|" width="1287" height="1608"><figcaption>Shop on aprajitatoor.com</figcaption></figure>

An image from Raw Mango's 2024 festive collection called Garland

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Raw Mango_Neerja Kurta_Featured_Festive-Shopping_TheNodMag

The party-hopper’s guide to budgeting festive fits

It looks like a pretty paperweight, it’s called ‘Raindrop’, it’s sorta <a href="https://thenodmag.com/content/japanese-dessert-kawaii-cafes-mumbai-goa-bengaluru-delhi">kawaii</a>, and the farthest thing you’d think from a mithai, and I’ll go out on a limb to say, it’s going to sweep the Diwali sweets awards this season.Designed by celebrated <a href="https://thenodmag.com/tag/bangkok">Bangkok</a>-based Thai patissier <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dej_kewkacha/">Dej Kewkacha</a>, at the behest of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sagesaffron/?hl=en">Sage &amp; Saffron</a>-founder <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aditidugar/?hl=en">Aditi Dugar</a>, this edible enigma promises to make the Mumbai-based gourmet catering service a gifting go-to this festival season.Kewkacha has imagined six variants of the confection, wherein each glassy palm-sized dome contains a different flower in the centre: sakura, orchid, jasmine, and rose among them. Rendered as a 3D floral jelly, the Raindrop, that the chronically online will remember as a <a href="https://www.delicious.com.au/food-files/news-articles/article/which-australian-city-viral-raindrop-cake-landed-first/8034170a-466d-48a9-9dcb-4b6e5e00622f">viral Japanese food trend from 2016</a>, is a visual knockout that warrants the disclaimer that it can (and should) be eaten.&nbsp;

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Kewkacha has employed his signature science-forward approach to ensure all the wobbly treats are vegetarian as well as gluten- and gelatin-free, using only plant-based colours, blueberry, water and yoghurt. The result? A modern-day mithai that is light as a cloud, low on calories, with a refreshingly subtle sweetness. The limited edition Raindrop collection is available for pre-orders pan India <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeqn1pSwJ-qvOR9PYpWTqLk_JNRG7dnyFATLiXFbQtrQb1eAQ/viewform">here</a>. It’s the sort of gift that’s designed to leave an impression—in fact, it might be safe to get a second box just for yourself.The Raindrop is available in a gift box set of one, three and six. Rs 850 onwards

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The party-hopper’s guide to budgeting festive fits

It’s only August, and we have a winner for this year’s Diwali mithai