Diwali invitation templates

Open with a Diwali greeting, then give the date, the puja time if there is one, when dinner or the party starts, the address and a reply-by date. Add a line on what to wear, such as Indian festive wear, and whether the meal is vegetarian. Mention sparklers or card games if they are part of the evening.

Send them about three weeks before your party, and four weeks for a large gathering. Families often have several Diwali invitations for the same weekend, so earlier invitations get better replies. Check the date of Diwali for the year you are hosting, since it moves between October and November.

Indian festive wear is traditional: a saree, lehenga, salwar kameez or anarkali for women, and a kurta or sherwani for men. Bright colours and gold are common. Guests who do not own Indian clothes are welcome in smart, colourful outfits. If you have a dress code, put it on the invitation.

A box of sweets, such as mithai, or a box of dry fruits is the traditional gift. Flowers, a decorative diya or candles also work well. Some households keep the evening alcohol-free, especially around a puja, so ask the host before bringing wine.

“Happy Diwali” is understood everywhere. “Shubh Deepavali” is a common Hindi greeting, and many South Indian families say “Happy Deepavali”. Gujarati families often greet each other with “Saal Mubarak” on the new year that follows Diwali. Any warm wish for light and prosperity is welcome.