Come Diwali, the city lights up in spectacular fashion. Adding to the charm are the numerous Diwali melas which deck the city each year, in the run up to the festivities. This year too, true to tradition, several melas have been lined up, promising to add much fun and exuberance and just the right amount of spark to the festival of lights.
So let loose your purse strings a bit and splurge on the following interesting and exciting Diwali Melas in Delhi NCR:
1. Blind School Diwali Mela
Run by the Blind Relief Association, the Blind School Diwali mela exhibits diyas, candles, jewellery and many other decorative products made by children of the Blind School. Home decor products which are sought after for adorning homes in Diwali can be easily found in the mela. While at the Diwali mela, do savour some of the delectable delicacies from countrywide cuisines that can be found at the many food stalls. Additionally, you can find unusual wares being sold by several NGOs who also get to put up their stalls at the event.
When: 10-16 October
Where: Blind School Relief Association, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg
Timings: 10am – 8pm
Entry fee: Free
2. Diwali Mela at Shakti Shalini
With an array of products on display such as diyas, jewellery, paintings, envelopes, woollen stoles, decorative storage boxes and cards, Shakti Shalini’s Diwali mela is a must-visit. The products have been made by survivors of sexual violence living at Pehchan, Shakti Shalini's shelter home for women in distress, and the residents of disadvantaged communities supported by Shakti Shalini.
The stationary buffs can even find some cool notebooks at throwaway prices. In fact, all their products are nominally priced, ranging between Rs 15 - 200. Did we mention there’s a cool mehendi stall too?
When: 7 October
Where: Kushalta Vikas Kendra, Block 10, Nehru Nagar; Landmark: Vimhans Hospital
Timings: 11.00 am – 4.00 pm
Entry fee: Free
3. Sunder Nagar Diwali Mela
One of the oldest Diwali melas in the city, Sunder Nagar Diwali Mela is the much-awaited festive shopping oasis with a loyal set of visitors. Known for its customary grandeur, this two-day affair has everything from food stalls to shopping joints and countless gaming counters. When you’re tired of going around a host of shops featuring handicrafts, candles and much more, relax for a while at the magic show while eating to your heart’s content.
Don’t forget to have fun on the Ferris Wheel rides because that’s what festivals are for. Sunder Nagar mela is not just a fair but an experience!
When: 14-15 October
Where: Sundar Nagar Park, Sundar Nagar
Timings: 4pm – 11pm
Entry fee: INR 100
4. Delhi Haat Diwali Bazaar
A place usually brimming with products from various Indian cultures and communities, Dilli Haat lights up brighter close to Diwali. From diyas and candles to clothes and accessories, you are sure to fill your bags with all kinds of Diwali delights and much more. Artisans and craftsmen from across the nation exhibit their wares, adding a touch of authenticity to whatever you pick up. And let’s not forget the delicious food items available at stalls all around the haat which add to the shopping experience!
When: 16-19 October
Where: Delhi Haat, INA
Timings: 10.30am – 10pm
Entry fee: INR 20
5. Dastkar Festival of Lights
For all handicraft connoisseurs, Dastkar’s Festival of Lights is a must-visit Diwali mela. Featuring a crazy range of hand-crafted products from the length and breadth of the country, this space is a sight for sore eyes. Cultural fiesta and sumptuous food aside, you will find unusual looms and snazzy jewellery in all shapes and sizes. Of course, staying true to its name, this 10-day carnival fiesta will have beautiful home decor options, gleaming diyas, organic candles and many more items to ring in the festivities.
When: 5-16 October
Where: Nature Bazaar venue, Anuvrat Marg, Kisan Haat Andheria Modh, Desu Colony, Chhattarpur
Timings: 11.00am – 7.30pm
Entry fee: Free
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