Deepavali Snacks in Singapore: A Culinary Celebration of the Festival of Lights

Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is a time of joy, celebration, and delicious food. As the Festival of Lights, Deepavali is not only marked by vibrant rangoli designs and glowing Deepavali lamps, but also by a feast of traditional sweets and savoury snacks that make this festival truly special. Whether you’re exploring a bustling Deepavali bazaar in Singapore or hosting your own celebration, food plays an essential role in the festivities.

When is Deepavali in Singapore?

In 2024, Deepavali in Singapore will be celebrated on 31st October, marking it as a public holiday. As families come together to light their homes with lamps and decorate with colourful rangoli, the tradition of sharing food takes centre stage, from delightful Deepavali sweets to hearty meals.

The Deepavali Story: A Festival of Victory and Light

The Deepavali story symbolises the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness. Known as the Festival of Lights, Deepavali celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, representing the victory of righteousness. It’s a time to cleanse your home, don new Deepavali outfits, and most importantly, indulge in a feast of Deepavali food with loved ones.

Delicious Deepavali Food and Snacks in Singapore

Singapore’s rich cultural diversity shines through in the variety of Deepavali snacks and dishes available during the festival. From traditional Indian sweets like ladoos and barfis, to savoury favourites like murukku and kachoris, Deepavali is a culinary celebration.

  • Deepavali Catering: Many families and businesses opt for Deepavali catering to bring the festival’s authentic flavours to their gatherings. Catering services offer a wide range of options, from traditional curries and rice dishes to sweet treats.

Sakunthala’s Restaurant offers a selection of catering packages for Deepavali, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options tailored for a festive feast. For non-vegetarians, Package A is priced at $19 per pax and features saffron rice, mutton dalcha, chicken masala, mutton mysore, fish cutlet, sweet brinjal, gulab jamun, and papadam. Package B, at $21 per pax, provides a slightly broader selection, including egg sambal, pepper mutton, and prawn Chettinad, alongside similar favourites like saffron rice, mutton dalcha, chicken masala, sweet brinjal, rasamalai, and papadam.

For those preferring a vegetarian spread, the Vegetarian Package is available at $17.50 per pax, featuring vegetarian biryani, mock Mysore, tofu sambal, aloo gobi mutter, bhindi fry, veg cutlet, payasam, and papadam. Each package captures the rich flavours of traditional Deepavali fare, ensuring an authentic and memorable experience for all guests.

  • Deepavali Sweets & Snacks: A key feature of the celebration is the abundance of Deepavali sweets, such as gulab jamun, jalebi, and kaju katli. Singaporeans also enjoy Deepavali cookies, which are often gifted as part of a Deepavali hamper or alongside a thoughtful Deepavali card.
  • Deepavali Gifts & Hampers: Food-filled Deepavali gifts are a popular tradition, with Deepavali hampers typically containing a variety of sweets, snacks, and sometimes personal care items or a decorative Deepavali lamp.

Not sure where to head for that Deepavali sweet box as a perfect hamper? You can try one of these shops to get your delectables for this festive season.

1. Shangri-La’s Exquisite Collection

Celebrate Deepavali 2024 with Shangri-La Singapore’s specially curated Mithai collection and hampers, offering a delightful array of sweet and savoury treats. Enjoy 10% early bird savings on these luxurious hampers, available for delivery and collection from 23 to 31 October 2024.

  • Deepavali Mithai Gift Box: S$62.10 (after 10% discount)
  • Bountiful Hamper: Includes Mullu Muruku, Ka Fry Kaju, and more savoury delights, priced at S$178.20 (after 10% discount)
  • Opulent Hamper: Features the Mithai Gift Box and a bottle of Clarendelle Rouge Bordeaux Wine for S$241.20 (after 10% discount)

All hampers are available for collection at Shophouse, Shangri-La Singapore Hotel (Tower Wing Lobby) from 11 AM to 8 PM.

2. Shahi Maharani’s Royal Collection

Shahi Maharani offers an exquisite collection of hand-made, artisanal Diwali mithai in their Royal Festive Box (Blue). Priced at S$98.00 (S$106.82 inclusive of GST), this luxurious box features 24 pieces of gluten-free, preservative-free sweets, crafted fresh daily and mildly sweetened.

Mithai varieties include:

  • Mango Surprise: Alphonso mango fudge with white chocolate (gluten-free)
  • Milk Cake: Classic Indian fudge with milk solids & cardamom (gluten-free)
  • Kaju Roll: Cashew flour stuffed with pistachios & silver leaves (gluten-free, dairy-free)
  • Roasted Gram Ladoo: Made from roasted gram and mixed nuts (gluten-free)
  • Coconut Rose Ladoo: Coconut powder, rose petal paste, and milk solids (gluten-free)
  • Almond Blueberry Roll: Almond powder with mixed nuts & blueberries (dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan)

Each box is presented in an elegant latticed design and comes with a golden bag and greeting card. Best consumed within three days of purchase, the sweets should be stored in a cool, dry place.

3. Kailash Parbat’s Traditional Indian Sweets

Kailash Parbat Singapore presents a delectable range of traditional Diwali sweets, perfect for celebrating the Festival of Lights. Their Diwali Sweet Boxes offer a variety of options, from dry fruit delights like Kaju Katli and Hazelnut Dryfruit Barfi to house special sweets such as Motichur Ladoo and Kheer Ka Dum. Prices for sweets start from S$4.00 to S$6.50 per 100 grams, with GST applicable.

Their Diwali Sweet Boxes are perfect for gifting and come in several sizes:

  • Sweet Box 1 & 2: Choose any 3 sweets (3 pieces each) for S$30.00 + GST.
  • Sweet Box 3: 12 pieces of sweets for S$40.00 + GST.
  • Sweet Box 4: 16 pieces of sweets for S$50.00 + GST.
  • Dry Fruits Boxes: 12 pieces of sweets plus 2 choices of dry fruits for S$60.00 + GST.

All sweets are made with quality ingredients, capturing the authentic taste of India, and discounts are available for bulk orders.

4. Adda Singapore’s Handcrafted Mithai Hampers

This Diwali, celebrate with Adda Singapore’s handcrafted mithai hampers, curated by Michelin-star chef Manjunath Mural. The hampers feature an exquisite blend of traditional and innovative flavours such as Paan Pistachio, Blueberry & Saffron, and Organic Charcoal & Coconut. Prices range from S$68.00 to S$98.00.

What makes Adda’s hampers truly unique is their purpose—each purchase supports the Smile Foundation’s Shiksha Na Ruke initiative, which helps underprivileged children in India continue their education. Enjoy a festive treat while contributing to a meaningful cause.

5. Rang Mahal’s 2024 Mithais Collection

Rang Mahal presents its 2024 Diwali Mithais Collection, “Jewels of Tradition”, featuring handcrafted sweets and savouries that celebrate the richness of Indian culinary heritage. The collection includes indulgent mithais such as Pistachio Burfi, Coconut Ladoo, Mango Delight, and Dates, Oats & Honey, paired with savoury delights like Roasted Almonds, Salted Cashews, and Crispy Mumbai Chidwa.

Rang Mahal continues its tradition of supporting the Breast Cancer Foundation, donating 10% of profits from mithai sales to this important cause. The collection is available in two luxurious options: the Luxe Shimmer Box (S$98) and the Bejeweled Butterfly Box (S$228), perfect for gifting or personal indulgence. Early birds can enjoy a 25% discount on bulk purchases.

6. Yantra’s Diwali Sweets

Yantra offers a delightful range of Diwali sweets, including their luxurious Barfi Box, which features handcrafted delicacies such as Kaju Katli made from premium Indian cashews, Khejoor Anjeer Barfi with Medjool dates and figs, Dharwar Peda, and Pista Macadamia Modak. Available in boxes of 12 or 20 pieces, the Barfi Box is priced between S$58.00 and S$88.00, making it a perfect festive treat for sharing or gifting. Additionally, Yantra also provides Motichoor Laddoo Boxes and premium Nuts Boxes for those seeking a variety of flavours.

7. Royal Taj’s Exclusive Diwali Boxes

Royal Taj Sentosa offers an elegant selection of Diwali sweet boxes, perfect for celebrating the festival of lights. The Premium Sweet Box includes 15 pieces of assorted Indian mithai and 4 jars of dry fruits and chocolates, presented in a signature designer box for S$95 nett. Other options include the Signature Sweet Boxes (Peacock Blue, Traditional, and Off White), each containing 24 pieces of mithai for S$75 nett. For those who prefer dry fruits, the Dry Fruits Ethnic Boxes in golden or silver ethnic designs are available for S$60 nett.

8. Punjab Grill’s Exclusive Diwali Sweet Boxes

Punjab Grill offers a luxurious range of Diwali sweet boxes, perfect for festive gifting. The Executive Box features 16 sweets and two varieties of dry fruits for S$110.00. For a grander option, the Khushi Box offers a two-tier collection with 16 sweets and four varieties of dry fruits for S$125.00, while the Rajwada Box presents 50 sweets in a two-tier design for S$160.00. Other options include the Royal 2 Tier Box with 24 sweets and 4 dry fruit varieties for S$140.00, and the Antique Dry Fruit Box for S$75.00.

Shopping at Deepavali Bazaars in Singapore

If you’re looking to buy traditional Deepavali food or snacks, you can also visit a Deepavali bazaar in Singapore. These lively markets offer everything from food to Deepavali decorations, clothing, and accessories. You can also pick out stunning Deepavali outfits and find unique items like handcrafted rangoli kits to add a festive touch to your home.

The Deepavali Festival Village, held by The Little India Shop Owners and Heritage Associations (LISHA) from 14 September to 30 October 2024 at Campbell Lane, is a vibrant hub that comes to life during the festive season. Open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, the bazaar offers a colourful array of stalls featuring traditional Indian clothing, intricate handicrafts, and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of authentic Indian cuisine, from savoury snacks to sweets, while experiencing traditional music, dance, and cultural performances.

Deepavali Decorations and Celebrations

Besides food, Deepavali decorations play a vital role in the festival. Many homes are adorned with intricate rangoli patterns at the entrance, and brightly illuminated with oil lamps to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness. Combined with delicious Deepavali snacks and sweets, a beautifully decorated home truly captures the spirit of the festival.

For those looking to add a festive touch to their homes this Deepavali, Singapore offers a variety of places to shop for decorations. Jothi Store & Flower Shop, located on Campbell Lane, is a long-standing favourite for all things Deepavali. They offer a wide selection of traditional items, including colourful rangoli powders, intricate clay lamps, and fragrant flower garlands, making it a go-to spot for festival essentials.

For a more contemporary take, IKEA Alexandra has you covered with their stylish and affordable range of home décor. During the Deepavali season, they offer festive candleholders, cushion covers with traditional patterns, and fairy lights to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

If you prefer shopping online, Purple Tulsi specialises in handcrafted Deepavali items, including beautifully designed diyas, torans, and rangoli stencils, all available with a click. Another popular online destination is QOO10, a marketplace where you can browse through countless Deepavali decorations. From traditional pieces to modern alternatives, this platform allows you to compare prices and read reviews to find the perfect decorations.

Conclusion

Deepavali, or Diwali, in Singapore is more than just a celebration; it’s an immersive experience filled with colourful Deepavali decorations, mouth-watering food, and cherished traditions. Whether you’re savouring your favourite Deepavali sweets, choosing the perfect Deepavali hamper, or simply enjoying time with family and friends, food remains at the heart of it all. Be sure to mark your calendars for Deepavali 2024 and embrace the rich flavours and festivities of this joyful occasion.

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