Diwali is knocking, but is your shopping list still a work in progress? Fear not, fellow Bangaloreans! We all know that last-minute scrambling is practically a festival tradition in itself. Whether it's finding the perfect outfit, grabbing a box of sweets, or picking up pooja essentials at the eleventh hour, the thrill of last-minute shopping has its own magic. Lucky for you, Bangalore’s vibrant markets and boutique stores are here to save the day! From glittering sarees to mouthwatering mithai and quirky gift hampers, this guide will help you breeze through your Diwali shopping sprint. Let’s make sure you’re all set to shine, snack, and celebrate with style!
1. Drape in Elegance: Ethnic Wear for the Festive Glow
When in doubt, wear a saree or an elegant kurta! Bangalore’s fashion hotspots are stocked with beautiful outfits to make you shine this Diwali. Here are the top three picks:
Pothys - Silk Sarees
Located on Commercial Street, Pothys is a haven for those looking for authentic silk sarees. Known for its extensive collection of Kanchipuram silk and vibrant festive shades, this is your go-to place if you want to go traditional with a luxurious twist.
Nicobar Design Studio
Nicobar at Indiranagar brings a blend of contemporary and traditional designs. Their special festive collection features flowing kurtas, embellished sarees, and chic accessories that can be great for a minimalistic Diwali wardrobe with a modern touch.
Pastels Boutique
Nestled in Jayanagar, Pastels Boutique offers exclusive designs that combine elegance with creativity. From traditional anarkalis to fusion lehengas, you’ll find a statement piece here to flaunt during the festive season.
"When in doubt, drape it out! Because a killer outfit is the first step to Diwali perfection."
2. Sweets to Savour: Treat Your Taste Buds
Diwali without sweets? Not a chance! Whether you’re gifting or indulging, these three iconic sweet shops in Bangalore will sort your last-minute sugar rush:
Anand Sweets & Savouries
Known for its high-quality sweets, Anand Sweets offers everything from delicious Kaju Katli to Motichoor Laddoos. With multiple locations across the city, this is your one-stop solution for premium Indian sweets.
KC Das
Craving classic Bengali sweets? KC Das, the inventor of the legendary rasgulla, is where you should head. With branches in Malleswaram and Church Street, their wide variety of sweets like Sandesh and Cham Cham is sure to add a sweet note to your Diwali celebrations.
Sangam Sweets
Located in Koramangala, Sangam Sweets specialises in North Indian delicacies like Gujiya and Soan Papdi. Their sweets are known for their authentic taste and quality, making them the perfect choice for gifting or feasting.
"Calories don’t count on Diwali! Get ready to indulge and make the festival sweeter with every bite."
3. Décor on a Deadline: Light It Up!
From sparkling lights to creative décor, your home needs to be Diwali-ready too. For a quick fix, these places will transform your space into a festival haven:
CherishX
If you're short on time but still want a glam-up, CherishX offers beautiful ready-to-use décor packages. Their Diwali sets feature fairy lights, lanterns, and traditional torans, delivered to your door to create an instant festive atmosphere.
The Purple Turtles
Head to The Purple Turtles in Indiranagar for unique lighting options, ranging from delicate diya holders to artistic lanterns. Their eclectic collection ensures that your home shines bright with style and grace.
BVK Iyengar Road & Chickpet
For budget-friendly, traditional lighting and festive décor, this area is unbeatable. It’s a treasure trove of street stalls selling colourful fairy lights, oil lamps, and ornate diyas at affordable prices perfect for last-minute shoppers.
"Let there be light and lots of it! Turn your home into a beacon of brightness with these festive finds."
4. Gifts That Wow: Thoughtful, Unique, and Last-Minute
Gifting during Diwali is an art. Whether it's for family, friends, or colleagues, these places will make sure your gifts are as special as the festival itself:
Dotted i
Located in Whitefield, Dotted i curates bespoke gift hampers. Choose from their pre-designed Diwali hampers featuring artisanal products, gourmet treats, and handcrafted goodies great for a thoughtful last-minute gift.
Corporate Diwali Gift Hampers in Bangalore
Specialising in premium gift sets for corporate clients, this service offers elegant and customisable hampers with sweets, dry fruits, and personalised gifts. Ideal if you’re in a time crunch and need multiple high-end gifts.
Gift IT
Based in Koramangala, Gift IT is known for its quirky and creative gifts. From personalised mugs and festive décor items to unique Diwali hampers, they offer something different for everyone on your list.
"Last-minute gifts, but make them thoughtful. These hampers and quirky gifts are sure to impress!"
5. Accessories and More: Add the Perfect Finishing Touches
No outfit is complete without the right accessories, and these spots will help you put together a flawless festive look even if you're short on time:
Commercial Street
Bangalore’s iconic shopping destination, Commercial Street, is a goldmine for everything from chunky jewellery to festive bangles and ethnic footwear. Perfect for picking up last-minute accessories that make a statement.
Chickpet Market
Known for its bustling energy, Chickpet Market is famous for traditional jewellery, vibrant bangles, and footwear at budget-friendly prices. You’ll also find kolhapuris and embroidered juttis that are ideal for Diwali.
Jayanagar 4th Block Market
Another local favourite, this market is your go-to for a quick shopping spree. You can pick up ethnic footwear, accessories, and festive scarves, all in one place, without burning a hole in your pocket.
"It’s all in the details! Shine bright with accessories that make your Diwali look sparkle."
6. Pooja Essentials: Prepping for the Rituals
Get your home ready for Diwali pooja with fresh flowers, incense sticks, and all the essentials. These places will make sure you’re spiritually prepared:
Malleswaram
One of the city’s oldest and most vibrant markets, Malleswaram is known for fresh flowers, fruits, and pooja essentials. Stalls overflow with marigolds, lotus flowers, and jasmine garlands that are perfect for Diwali décor and rituals.
Satish Stores
Located in Jayanagar, Satish Stores is the ultimate destination for pooja samagri. From diyas to agarbattis and Ganesha idols, you’ll find everything you need to complete your Diwali pooja here.
"From petals to pooja — get everything you need for the rituals without missing a beat!"