Ace your Diwali celebrations with expert catering tips that blend tradition and creativity for an unforgettable feast. Diwali, the festival of lights, is not just about dazzling decorations and beautiful attire—it’s also about indulging in a feast with loved ones. Whether you're hosting a cosy family gathering or a grand Diwali bash, the food plays a central role in creating lasting memories.

With over 2,000 events under his belt, Mr. Ishaan Kapoor, the founder of Purple Plate Catering, shares his top five tips to help you craft a mouthwatering spread that will leave your guests talking long after the last diya has burned out. 1.

Balance Tradition with Innovation Diwali is steeped in tradition, and the food should reflect that. “Guests expect classic flavours during Diwali, but it’s always exciting to add a modern twist,” says Mr. Kapoor.

Traditional dishes like vegetable dum biryani and Purple Plate special paneer tikka are always crowd-pleasers, but you can impress your guests by reinventing them in creative ways. For example, serving bite-sized chhole bhature canapes and modern truffle mushroom cigars to combine tradition with a contemporary flair. "The key is to strike a balance between honouring the essence of Diwali and offering something unexpected," he adds.

2. Create a Themed Food Station Setting up a dedicated food station adds an exciting and festive touch to your Diwali party. A chaat station, for instance, is always a hit, where guests can mix and match.