Diwali Getaways: Top Cities to Visit for a Sparkling Celebration

Diwali Getaways: Top Cities to Visit for a Sparkling Celebration

By Author

Published on November 8, 2023

The festival of lights is upon us, and this year's Diwali is set to sparkle with more than just firecrackers. With a calendar that blesses us with a long weekend, why not swap the usual festivities at home for a burst of new experiences? Let's jet set to some of India's most iconic cities, where Diwali isn't just a festival, it's a lifetime memory waiting to happen.

 Varanasi: A Divine Spectacle on the Ganges

First up, Varanasi – the spiritual heart of India, where the Ganges isn’t just a river but the canvas for the grandest aarti you'll ever witness. Diwali here is a celestial event, an endless cascade of lights and colors that makes the city feel like a galaxy on earth. As the ghats light up with thousands of diyas, the echoes of chants and bells create a soundtrack that's more soul-stirring than any orchestra.

 Jaipur: Royal Splendor Amidst Pink Walls

Next, let's take our Diwali celebration royal at Jaipur, the Pink City that turns into a golden mirage during the festivities. Here, palaces aren’t just historic landmarks; they’re timeless sentinels watching over a city draped in vibrant hues and twinkling lights. The markets bustle with activity, as locals and visitors alike seek treasures in the form of traditional wear and artisanal crafts.

 Ayodhya: An Epic Homecoming Celebration

In Ayodhya, the essence of Diwali goes back to its mythological roots – a homecoming and a victory of good over evil. The city isn’t just lit; it reenacts history, inviting everyone to be a part of a celebration that has been ongoing for millennia. Here, the warmth of the people matches the warmth of the lights that adorn the city.

Goa: A Beachside Festivity with a Twist

Then there's Goa, which offers a Diwali with a twist. It's not just about the sandy shores; it's about cultural fusion where traditional lamps meet the serenity of the sea. Goa's version of the festival includes vibrant fairs, effigies of Narakasura being paraded through the streets, and, as night falls, a panorama of fireworks that reflect over the ocean.

 Kolkata: The City of Joy and the Goddess of the Night

Our festive trail ends in Kolkata, the cultural capital that turns into a panorama of devotion and celebration during Diwali. Known for its grand Kali Puja, the city takes on an ethereal aura, offering a stark contrast to the usual Lakshmi Puja observed elsewhere. The city is alive with thematic pandals, sweets that are culinary masterpieces, and a collective spirit that could light up the darkest of nights.

Each city on this list offers a slice of Diwali that's unique, immersive, and utterly unforgettable. This isn't just about escaping the routine; it's about enriching it with stories you'll tell for years to come. So, light up your inner traveler and let this Diwali be a journey that celebrates not just the victory of light over darkness, but also the joy of exploration and the spirit of India in all its festive glory.


On2Cook Wins German Innovation Award 2025, Putting Indian Deep-Tech on the Global Map

On2Cook Wins German Innovation Award 2025, Putting Indian Deep-Tech on the Global Map

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 16, 2025

On2Cook, an Ahmedabad-based deep-tech startup, has won the German Innovation Award 2025, a major recognition presented by the prestigious German Design Council. The award ceremony was held at Deutsche Technikmuseum in Berlin, honouring global innovations that demonstrate real-world impact and future-forward technology.

The award places On2Cook among an elite group of global innovators and highlights India’s growing presence in the deep-tech space. Unlike traditional design awards, the German Innovation Award focuses on six strict parameters: innovation, user benefit, market readiness, economic viability, technical and design quality, and sustainability. With jury members from technology, business, design, and academia, the recognition is seen as a strong industry endorsement.

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On2Cook’s patented appliance is designed for both speed and efficiency. By combining induction searing, microwave volumetric heating, and AI-powered sensor control, the appliance reduces cooking time by up to 70% and energy usage by 50%. Independent lab tests confirm that it retains nutrients better and delivers consistent flavour and texture.

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Currently used in over 50 commercial kitchens across India, the US, and the Middle East, the appliance replaces multiple machines, allowing chefs to work faster and businesses to scale more efficiently.

“This recognition is a validation of not just our patents, but our mission to make sustainable, intelligent cooking the global norm,” said Sanandan Sudhir, Inventor & CEO of On2Cook. “It shows that world-class hardware innovation can be conceived and engineered in India,” he added.

The award is timely as On2Cook prepares for its Series A funding round. It boosts the startup’s credibility with investors, European distributors, and regulatory bodies, strengthening its global expansion and export plans.

For Sanandan and Jyoti Sudhir, Co-Founders of both On2Cook and InventIndia, this win is the result of years of belief in human-centred design and purpose-driven technology. From starting the venture in Ahmedabad to receiving global recognition, their journey reflects the resilience and rising potential of Indian startups to shape global industries.


Robert Bailey Brings Savile Row Craftsmanship to Mumbai at Four Seasons Trunk Show

Robert Bailey Brings Savile Row Craftsmanship to Mumbai at Four Seasons Trunk Show

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 16, 2025

The art of British tailoring took centre stage in Mumbai as master Savile Row tailor Robert Bailey hosted an exclusive trunk show at Modernist, the private members’ club at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.

On his second visit to India, Bailey brought over 40 years of bespoke tailoring expertise and showcased a curated collection of more than 3,000 luxury fabrics from renowned mills like Dormeuil, Scabal, Holland & Sherry, and Loro Piana. Held over three days, the event featured private, by-appointment consultations where clients received expert guidance on fit, fabric, and styling.

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“It’s been a pleasure returning to Mumbai,” said Robert Bailey. “The level of appreciation for true craftsmanship here is remarkable. I’ve found the clientele to be confident, curious, and style-aware—keen to express individuality through tailoring, but also deeply respectful of tradition.”

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Bailey is known for his signature approach of adapting Savile Row traditions to suit modern lifestyles, and for Mumbai’s climate, he introduced breathable fabrics, lighter canvases, and subtle adjustments in cut—while maintaining details like sculpted waists and high armholes. His clientele in the city included lawyers, entrepreneurs, and professionals who value custom tailoring with timeless appeal.

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Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, said, “It was a true pleasure to welcome Robert Bailey. At the heart of our hotel is a commitment to curating exceptional experiences. Trunk shows like these bring together artistry and elegance, offering our guests access to some of the world’s finest craftsmanship—right here in Mumbai.”

The trunk show was more than a display of tailoring excellence—it was a celebration of tradition and individual expression. Guests can look forward to future visits, as Robert Bailey plans to return to Mumbai, with appointments available through Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.


Delhi HC Dismisses Zostel Petition, Rules in Favour of OYO

Delhi HC Dismisses Zostel Petition, Rules in Favour of OYO

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 15, 2025

OYO, the global travel-tech firm, secured a legal victory as the Delhi High Court ruled in its favour by setting aside the arbitral award related to its long-standing dispute with Zostel Hospitality, the parent company of ZO Rooms. The court also dismissed Zostel’s execution petition, bringing closure to the years-long legal tussle.

The court upheld OYO’s stance that it did not breach any agreement arising from the acquisition discussions held with Zostel in 2015. The judgment emphasised that no part of Zostel’s business was ever transferred to OYO and reinforced the legal principle that a determinable contract cannot be specifically enforced, aligning with precedents from the Supreme Court of India.

The dispute dates back to November 2015, when OYO and Zostel signed a non-binding term sheet to explore a possible acquisition. However, the transaction fell through due to failed due diligence and lack of mutual agreement on key commercial terms.

Zostel had initiated arbitration in September 2018, which resulted in a March 2021 arbitral award, a decision OYO promptly challenged. The legal battle continued with OYO securing an earlier win when the court dismissed Zostel’s injunction application in February 2022.

The Delhi HC's latest ruling affirms that no definitive agreement was ever finalised and that essential terms remained unsettled.

OYO, responding to the outcome, reiterated its commitment to technological innovation and operational excellence, continuing its mission to deliver quality accommodation experiences for customers worldwide.

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