Diwali 2025: 50 ways to give love

Copyright © HT Digital Streams Limited All rights reserved. Team Lounge 21 min read 17 Oct 2025, 16:32 IST If you look closely, every gift fits in some way with one or more of the five love languages: words of affirmation, quality time, acts of service, physical touch, and finally, the gift itself. (iStockphoto) Summary What is the best way to show your love and appreciation? Through your love language, people say. But then again, there are five distinct love languages. To help you decide which to choose, this Diwali, Lounge brings you a guide to thoughtful gifts that tap into the many ways you can show your love Gifting is an art, a science, a delicate balance of thoughtfulness and practicality, sentiment and budget. But above all, gifts are about love: platonic, romantic and everything in between. If you look closely – and if it’s not put together by a concierge service – each gift aligns in some way with one or more of the five love languages: words of affirmation, quality time, acts of service, physical touch, and finally, the gift itself. The moment you realize this alignment, gift giving becomes more than a seasonal task. It becomes a conscious, meaningful act. It even becomes fun, and brings back that warm fuzzy feeling. That’s why this festive season, Lounge decided to design a gift guide inspired by the five love languages. Each item in our guide has been carefully selected to appeal to every love language, and flexible enough to mix and match according to your preferences and those of the person you’re giving to. Gift giving can feel stressful, especially when you’re under pressure to send out hampers to everyone on your list during the festive season, from friends to acquaintances. How do you find the perfect sign that reflects your feelings without being too sentimental or superficial? How do you ensure that your gesture matches what you think of the recipient? We’ve got you covered. QUALITY TIME See full image Taj Ganga Kutir, Raichak, West Bengal OLD NEW MEMORIES For siblings living in different cities, the most precious moments in a year are the days or weekends together. When we are with our siblings, we usually think of old times, especially the old houses that no longer belong to us and the old jokes that never grow up. It’s a nostalgia trip every time. Next time, instead of visiting your siblings, plan a short getaway. Don’t carry any baggage, just memories. Choose a hotel resort that fits your budget and style. View Full Image Birdfy Bird Feeder STOCKING TOGETHER Bird watching takes patience and time, and if you’re a little short on both, this smart bird feeder with a dual-lens camera is a great way to share a hobby at your own pace. Fill it with seeds and when the birds from your neighborhood move in for a feast, the solar-powered camera takes high-definition photos and sends them to your phone. Get your flock together for a viewing party or to play a game of ‘name that bird’ (it can identify over 6,000 species). And if you fill it with enough goodies, it might attract more than just carrier pigeons. Birdfy.com; approx ₹26,600 View Full Image Rooftop Artventures of Phad Book PAINT A PERFORMANCE Nothing spells quality time like bonding over art. Embark on an immersive journey into the history and technique of traditional art forms like warli, phad and mata-nipachedi with DIY kits. Online learning platform Rooftop App has an Artventures Art Books series, ranging from elementary to expert, packed with insights, practical tips, accompanying folklore and activity kits. For example, the Artventure of Phad book is perfect for all ages and features works and stories by master artist Kalyan Joshi, who comes from a line of phad painters dating back to the 13th century. Rooftopapp.com; ₹999-2,499. View Full Image Conversation card games are a thoughtful way to pass the time. DECKS OF DISCOVERY From playful couple prompts and family-friendly games to decks with deep connections like We’re Not Really Strangers, conversation card games are a thoughtful way to spend your time. We discovered them at a “friendsgiving” party where a friend brought together her pals from all her different circles, most of whom were meeting for the first time. What’s most beautiful is how they encourage intentional moments to connect and share, even helping you discover new layers in long-standing friendships, reminding you that there’s always more to learn about people. Amazon.com and Schooloflife.com; ₹900-3,550. View Full Image Buddh Marble Mortar and Pestle CRUSHING MEDITATION The everyday act of crushing chilies and herbs can be meditative, lulling the user to forget “that urgent mail that needs to be sent” and focus on the moment. Inspired by the Buddha’s meditative pose, this marble mortar and pestle is a tangible expression of that idea. Designed by artist Naomi Karodt and crafted by third-generation craftsmen in Agra, it’s a kitchen accessory that serves as a reminder to take some quality time to just be. Give it to a friend who enjoys the rituals of slow cooking. Theplatedproject.com; ₹2,450. View Full Image Join a beginner’s pottery workshop with a family member or a colleague. (iStockphoto) POTTERY AROUND Pottery is that thing that everyone wants to try but never quite get around to. Signing up for a beginner’s pottery lesson is a great way to spend a few hours with yourself or to have fun with a family member, colleague or that workaholic friend you haven’t seen in years. It’s intentional, calming and grounding – as well as a lot of fun, as the strange shapes that will come off the wheel will leave you in stitches. You’ll need all your creativity, not only to shape the clay, but also to imagine uses for the molds you produce. At most independent studios; prices start from ₹ 1,500 View Full Image L’Occitane Cocon de Serenite Relaxing Pillow Mist SWEET-SCENTED SLEEP Sleep, as most of us would agree, is the ultimate luxury in this ever-busy world. So even if you get less than the recommended amount of rest each night, why not make those hours more enjoyable? Delight in this pillow mist—a pure delight for the senses comprised of soft notes of lavender, mallow, bergamot and mandarin orange that will soothe your olfactory senses and lull you into a peaceful slumber. Loccitane.com; ₹2,450.View Full Image Join an online cooking club and connect with like-minded people around the world. (iStockphoto) CLUB COOKS Online cookbook clubs give you the opportunity to connect with like-minded people from around the world. For those who relax while poring over recipes, check out SFW Cookbook Club and The Cookbook Nook on Instagram, WhatsApp and Substack. With one book at a time, you not only learn about different types of cooking and cooking techniques, but also participate in an exchange of knowledge and recipes. @gyaanfactorysfw and the cookbooknook.substack.com. View Full Image Persée Make Your Table Clock Set MAKE MINUTES Make time by putting together a table clock alone or with the help of a loved one or two. This beautiful box contains the 233 components and 17 tools you need to assemble a timepiece and bring it to life. Tailored to appeal to absolute beginners as well as seasoned collectors, it offers access to a support group of experts who can guide you through the motions. By following the step-by-step instructions, it takes about 10 hours to turn this set into a ticking clock and see time in a whole new light. Maison-alcee.com; around ₹7.7 lakh. View Full Image Springbok Cherry V2 Treadmill A HARD RUN For fitness enthusiasts, any time spent exercising is quality time. This curved Springbok Cherry V2 treadmill made from cherry wood is proof that the sky can be the limit when it comes to exercise equipment. With 62 wooden slats attached to the curved frame, it’s 100% self-powered by the runner—talk about sweating it out to feel power. It is not completely analog, as it is equipped with an integrated display that contains real-time data. Overall, it’s the neat, almost sculptural design of the treadmill that makes it a must-have. Nohrd.com; ₹10.24 lakh. GIVEAWAY View full image Colleklove Gopuram Temple Sculpture GLASS KNOWLEDGE If you’ve ever been dazzled by the colors and creatures that inhabit South Indian temple gateways, this Gopuram Temple Sculpture is for you—or for the friend who keeps stepping back and trying to fit those soaring structures into their phone screen. Crafted from hand-blown glass in pastel shades, this sculpture recreates both the warm colors and playful elements of the gopuram without overwhelming a room. Set up lighting around it and watch it sparkle. Kollekklove.com; ₹ 1.5 lakh. View Full Image Woodfeather Maverick Propeller AIM FOR THE SKY A 6 foot propeller is hard to ignore when hanging on your wall, and will definitely be a conversation starter. Crafted from solid Burmese teak, the blue and black propeller channels the never-say-die attitude of our favorite fighter pilot Maverick, from the Top Gun films (it also has his famous line: “I feel the need… the need for speed”). A gift for fans of the film or those with imaginations running wild. Woodfeather.com; ₹76,000. View Full Image Solid Eco Green Mukhya Knot Handmade Koodai Tote Bag A HAUTE BASKET The good old koodai bag gets a haute makeover in this collaboration between lifestyle brand Zwende Design and Bengaluru-based women’s organization Samhati. Handwoven using the mukhya knot with plastic threads, the bag is roomy enough to carry your whole world (almost). You have the option to personalize the bag by adding a name tag, a cute charm and a leather pouch. The leather straps (vegan leather is also available) add an element of chic, making it perfect for a holiday or a day in the office. Zwinde.com; ₹3,545.View Full Image Doodlage Avery Quilted Jacket FASHION, WITH YOUR TWIST Trends turn so fast that clothes are always in danger of being ‘last season’ before the recipient tears off the wrapping paper. Opt for something quirky that can be styled in more than one way. Like this quilted Doodlage jacket made from recycled fabric waste. If it’s a little out of your budget, put it on your vision board and get inspired to make your own version using scraps and scraps from kurtas, tracksuits, jackets or dresses. There is so much joy in giving shape to your own clothes. Doodlage.in; ₹7,800. View Full Image Kasutikavana Dahlia Fridge Magnet SAY IT WITH FLOWERS The worst thing about saying it with flowers is that the flowers wilt so quickly and end up looking wasted. Instead, opt for some of these handmade dahlia flower magnets made of satin with tiny designs picked out in gold thread in Karnataka’s kasuti embroidery. Pop it into one of their versatile Ganga-Jamuna wallets (₹180 each), which can be used to store everything from keys and earrings to quirky passport-sized photos, and make it a complete gift. Kasutikavana.com; ₹99. View Full Image Parama Calcutta Violet Jamdani Frida Kahlo Blouse STYLE LIKE FRIDA Your sari-loving friend probably has too many saris. So why not give her a blouse instead? Parama Calcutta’s quirky yet artistic designs are a delight, all the more so because they are inspired by the everyday life and culture of Kolkata and Bengal – think yellow taxis, Satyajit Ray’s film dialogue, the Bengali screenplay, Howrah Bridge. This one is a version of the ruffled lace blouses often seen on Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, in a traditional jamdani weave. Parama Calcutta; ₹3,500. View Full Image Comet x Monopoly Limited Edition Sneakers FEET ON THE STREETS The cult classic board game Monopoly meets street style in these limited edition sneakers—just 800 pairs—making them a unique gift for your sneakerhead or pop culture-loving friend. But the names of Indian streets that vary on the soles yn, might just tempt you to keep it to yourself. Gifting yourself is also an act of self-care. Wearcomet.com; ₹5,299.View Full Image Polymer Clay Ramen Earrings WEAR YOUR RAMEN Do you have a friend who inhales ramen for breakfast, lunch and dinner, is obsessed with Japanese pop culture, or can’t stop looking up ramen rolls? These adorable earrings are for those who love their jewelry as much as the soupy, umami noodle bowl. Handmade from polymer clay, they also come with a clip-on option. This is truly a lovely gift. Etsy.com; ₹1,859.View Full Image Anemos TR-W342 3-Speed ​​Turntable VERTICAL MUSIC Sometimes the joy of gift-giving lies in finding unusual products like this vertical-style turntable made in India. The vintage-looking record player can play records in three speeds (33-1/3, 45, 78RPM), but it is also versatile as it can play music from your USB player, bluetooth and the FM radio as well. It comes with built-in speakers and an alarm clock. Anemos.in; ₹26,500. View full image The Ember Dutch Oven COOKS LOW AND SLOW If you’re a sourdough obsessive, these beautiful Dutch ovens from Ember’s latest range of cookware should be on your list. It’s a versatile addition to the kitchen, as it’s great for slow-cooked stews as well as one-pot meals for those busy weeknights. The ovens are 100% non-stick and non-toxic and come in warm pastel colours. Ideal for cooking on the stove and also in the oven. Cool; ₹4,199 (24cm). View full image Louis Vuitton Escale and Amazonie pocket watch POCKET JUNGLE If the Amazon—the rainforest, not the terrain—is your dream destination, you can take the memory of it with you everywhere with the Louis Vuitton Escale and Amazonie pocket watch. The dial is hand-engraved with enameled monkeys, leaves, parrots and snakes, and a compass and canoe to help you navigate this jungle. The transparent case back shows the artificial finish of the movements and the inner workings of the 50 mm diameter watch. It is a modern heirloom. Louis Vuitton; price on request. View full image Edward Ross’ graphic novel, ‘Filmish’. INTO THE FILM VERSE Shopping for a cinephile comic book fan? Cartoonist Edward Ross’ graphic novel Filmish is a delightful, accessible journey through film. Ross approaches the scope of film through themed chapters such as The Eye, The Body and Time, which reproduce everything from film theory to the trivia of fetching black-and-white illustrations. Amazon.com; ₹2,325. WORDS OF AFFIRMATION View Full Image A postcard is a silent gesture of love wrapped in ink, memory and intention. (iStockphoto) LOVE, IN TRANSIT You don’t always have to return with fridge magnets or duty-free souvenirs. Sometimes love travels lighter. A postcard scribbled between moments says “I was thinking of you here”. Words become the souvenir, which carries warmth over distance. A silent gesture of love wrapped in ink, memory and intention. Available: Anywhere and everywhere you travel; the price depends on where you are. View Full Image This moon artwork comes in an elegant frame IN THE MOONLIGHT What do you give someone who has everything? Perhaps a reminder of a special day in the form of a custom photo of the moon as it appeared on the day they celebrate it. This artwork comes in an elegant frame and you can add text in any number of fonts to tell them what you’re thinking – moony, clumsy or serious. Or maybe use the phases of the moon to make plans for the future – a vacation with a bestie, schedule a monthly video call with a distant cousin, or just remind yourself that the moon shines with the light of the sun. Available: Ritwikas.com; ₹799- ₹3,099. STATIONERY STACKS Stationery, design, food, culture, style, writing, courtesy… what’s not to love about the way the Japanese live? Stacked like a bento box with 12 items, this stationery set brings together the best of Japanese design and ideas. There is of course pen, pencil and paper, but also logo pins, washi tape, an attache organizer, a pair of scissors… all waiting to be discovered like a beautiful meal you will share with a friend. Available: Nooe.co; ₹11,999. YOURS TRULY Personalized stationery – the kind where your name is printed on envelopes, gift tags and note cards – gives off Downton Abbey vibes. But that’s what makes it a unique gift, especially for someone you like to exchange handwritten notes or letters with. The Aurelia collection in cream and gold includes a money envelope, a gift card, note card with envelope and a stamp with an option to order them in sets of 25, 50 and 100. Available: Bombaylettering.com; ₹7,500 for a set of 25. NOTES TO MYSELF Organizing notes and ideas is a bit of a time sink, which is where the AI-powered Plaud Note Pro can come in handy. It starts recording with one press, and you can highlight key moments during a call and type text notes as they come to mind. This is all integrated with the recording transcript, which is delivered once your meeting is over with summaries and highlights. You can also use the credit card-sized device to organize your random voice notes for yourself. It does a lot but doesn’t pay the bills – although it might remind you. Available: Pre-order on Plaud.ai; around ₹16,000 GIFT BOWL MELODY Making a playlist for someone is like bottling a mood and gifting it. It’s part of you, part of them, and part of the moment…be it Diwali lights, Bhai Dooj laughter, Christmas revelry or New Year’s Eve glitz. That way, wherever you go, you can always take the music with you to set the rhythm of your band. Available: Every music streaming platform; requires some thought and some pixie dust from recommendation engine. Bag of Dreams A statement bag is a great way to show you care, especially if it’s made by a local designer or craftsman. This leather bag is made and sold directly by the artisans of Kutchh in Gujarat. So every time you wear it, you not only add a pop of color to your outfit, but also show your love for Indian handicrafts and the people behind them – a somewhat unique way of expressing your appreciation. Available on Rakhiyo.com; ₹8,550. A LITTLE HUMAN TOUCH In the internet age, you can call, text, DM your loved ones all you want – but sometimes it just takes a little human touch to make them feel really special. A handwritten letter forces you to slow down and marinate your thoughts before putting them down on paper. With this beautiful letter writing kit, rediscover the joy of slow communication, and the art of conveying through a simple, yet powerful, gesture what words alone can never communicate. Available: The Paper Company; around ₹ 5,000. ACTS OF SERVICE EASY LISTEN What smooths a loved one’s entry into the world of vinyl if not an act of service? Getting started with a record player can be intimidating, even for music lovers. The Revolver Club allows you to test the waters with minimal complications with their Enthusiast Pack, which includes the fully automatic Audio Technica AT-LP60X turntable and Edifier R1280DB speakers. Available: The Revolwerkclub; ₹46,822. RAIN IN A BOTTLE The smell of the first rain on parched earth brings back memories of another time – and of course, nostalgic ‘petrichor’ posts on Instagram. But you can wear the fragrance of petrichor all year round, instead of waiting for the changeable monsoon. Handcrafted in Kannauj, the perfume capital of India, Maati Natural Perfume Oil by Boond Fragrances is alcohol- and chemical-free, and has an earthy, woody scent, which makes for a mood lifter. Available: Boondfragrances.com; ₹2,049 (12 ml) SMART BOTTLE Do you know someone who is always planning their next trek or hike? This self-cleaning water bottle is for them. It uses a proprietary PureVis technology (with UV-C LED light) to eliminate bio-contaminants such as E. coli from the water and bottle, and is very easy to use. Simply fill the bottle anywhere, press the cap, shake the bottle gently and get clean drinking water in a few minutes. Available: livelarq.com; ₹7,500. ROLL THE SILKS Kanjeevarams and Banarasis are always admired – the craftsmanship, the intricate designs and the beautiful colors – but looking after them can be a challenge. Storing them correctly – rolling, not folding – is critical to making sure they don’t fray, and retain their polished shine for decades. This sari roll is made from reclaimed teak wood and engraved with a deer logo. The adjustable, compact rod makes it easy to roll and store the silk sari in closets, no matter what size your closet is. It comes with a muslin cover and elastics to hold and protect the sari. Ideal for every person you know with an enviable collection of sarees. Available: Kanakavalli.com; ₹8,500. SELF-CARE STEAM We always thought vaporizers were just something to pull out when you were struggling with a persistent cough, stuffy nose or sinusitis, until a friend showed up with one that doubles as a facial steamer and a humidifier. It has changed our view of a fairly mundane object – which is also the hallmark of a thoughtful gift that also performs a service. A simple way to rest, rejuvenate, practice conscious self-care – and heal too. Available: Drtrust.in; ₹1,999. SUPPORT ANIMAL If the giraffe is your spirit animal, you’ll know they’re supposed to symbolize self-esteem, confidence, kindness and a willingness to share. If you’re a wildlife lover, they’re social animals and the tallest on earth – apart from being a joy to look at. All these aspects come together in Neckles, the elegant wooden giraffe from Varnam Craft Collective that combines Karnataka’s Channapatna and Kashmir’s Naqqashi lacquerwork. This cutie can serve as a friend in need, a reminder of a holiday past, or just a thing of beauty for your living room. Available: Varnam Craft Collective (@varnamcraftcollective); ₹15,000. COOK SMART Buying kitchen appliances for apartments can be a nerve-wracking task as the decision almost always comes down to space. This OTG oven cum air fryer by Morphy Richards is a true genius. It’s essentially an oven, toaster and broiler with a built-in air fryer and dehydrator, perfect for compact kitchens, and meant for those who want to indulge in some guilt-free cooking. Available: Amazon.com; ₹19,999. SEED POWER This one is for a sibling whose daily schedule revolves around ingesting supplements or the latest health concoction. Created to support hormonal balance and healthy menstruation, this superfood bundle is intended to be consumed by women during the luteal and follicular phases of the menstrual cycle. Each blend is made using seeds that are beneficial for each phase – the Phase 1 blend is made with pumpkin and flax seeds and Phase 2 with sesame and sunflower seeds. The blends also include moringa, shatavari and hemp seeds. The powders can be taken by themselves or topped on smoothies and salads. Available on Samah.in; ₹1,749. GOT YOU COVERED Bring joy to a rainy day or reprieve to an extra sunny day with a gift of these beautiful hand block printed umbrellas. Each bears a different pattern — butterflies, elephants, fish and traditional kolam designs — printed by young adults with special needs. It’s a practical, meaningful gift and also a cute way to tell someone you’ve got them covered. Available: hastha.co.in; ₹800. WARMTH AND TOUCH HAND FRIED CUSHIONS Carrying your baby in a cloth is a wonderful way to bond with your little one. We discovered that cloth slings offer maximum flexibility, allowing us to go about our daily routine without the constant pressure of carrying the ball until our arms fall off. Made with organic, custom breathable fabric, the Masilo baby carrier really takes the weight off your mind while keeping baby warm and calm. It comes in cute prints, and can be folded down to pocket size for travel. Available: Masilo.in; ₹3,920. BALCONY TO COME Gaa go one step further than “farm to table” and set up your own mini mushroom farm at home. This starter kit is ideal for enthusiasts who want to grow their own food but aren’t blessed with green fingers or the land needed to do so. All you need with this kit is a corner of your balcony and minimal care – and voila – you’ll have delicious mushrooms in your bowl in a few days. Available: Amazon.com ; ₹500. SOFT TOY THERAPY Soft toys are cute, but can they also be therapeutic? That’s the idea behind Cuddles weighted stuffed animals. Say hello to Olly Jr, Olly Sr and Ellie, soft toys filled with dried French lavender and organic flaxseed. They are designed as therapy toys to help soothe children and reduce anxiety and stress and improve sleep in adults. Send one of these toys to a friend to show you have their back. Available: Thesoulco.in; ₹2,649. MAKE IT SCENT This ‘Make Your Own Perfume’ kit is like a mini laboratory that will help you create one. With 12 ingredients, a perfume base, droppers, empty spray bottles and a manual, you can make 20 perfumes by following the workbook or mixing them yourself and keeping notes on the formula sheets. The kit is a DIY gift option for a loved one who loves perfume and is curious about the science behind it. Available: isakfragrances.com; ₹7,700. FACE THAT’S WHY THE LED face mask might look like something out of a sci-fi film, but it’s easily the most popular at-home beauty gadget right now. The light therapy masks claim to smooth and repair skin, promote collagen production and improve elasticity – which is why there are countless roles of people wearing them and going about their day, vacuuming, cooking or just relaxing. This one from Shark has red, blue and deep infrared light that is supposed to work on fine lines and dark circles. Available: Sharkclean.co.uk; ₹30,000. NAP BUDDY Soft, comforting and huggable, a cuddle pillow or body pillow brings your warmth to someone when you are not physically close to them. Perfect for rest, relaxation or even period cramp days. Each hug can potentially transform an ordinary moment of rest into a feeling of connection and caring. What’s not to love? Available: Amazon; ₹1,000-2,000. CREATE ON THE GO Want to turn your phone from a device of distraction into one for productivity? A foldable keyboard – a portable, sleek and smart accessory for the age of digital nomadism – can give you an edge. Whether you’re a writer on the go, or someone who needs to write emails on the go, this device will help you focus and unlock the powerhouse that is your handheld – while bringing that tactile feeling back to work. Available: Amazon.com (around ₹12,000). ATTACHED What better gift of warmth is there than one that is handmade, always in fashion and can be passed on to the next generation? If you grew up in Kashmir, you would have had a special soft spot for hand-embroidered pashmina shawls, even if you couldn’t afford them, even though they are objects of desire for almost everyone. They embody Kashmir’s beauty and craftsmanship. Gift this red pashmina shawl from Kashmir Loom to a loved one. When they are warm and cozy, they will think of you. Available: kashmirloom.com; ₹110,000. I HEAR YOU For that uncle who spends his evenings listening to music, especially Sufi songs and ghazals while having a drink, give them a ticket, or two if they want to bring a companion, to a Harshdeep Kaur concert, Noor-e-Ishq, on November 15 at Grand Theater at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultur Center in Mumbaial. And if you want to go overboard, add dinner reservations too. Available: Nmacc.com; from ₹1,500. AVO SOUL There is something indescribably fulfilling about nurturing a seed or a tree with all your heart and seeing it blossom or bear fruit one day. Plants make for versatile gifts, and encouraging someone to find solace in nature is perhaps the best gift one can give. Make it unique with this avocado seed starter kit that comes with a borosilicate vase, allowing you to observe the first stages of the plant’s life. The roots multiply as you care for them to develop into an attractive houseplant. Available: Amazon; ₹4,773. TABLE THE CASE The Rubik’s Cube is a perennial favorite as well as a stumper, and the 3D puzzle only gained popularity from the 1970s. Bring the cube to life with this playful storage unit for kids – or for the kid in you – that you can put together on your own. You can chat, argue, babble and bond over which screw to fit where. And then argue some more, after it’s put together, about whether it will be storage, a table or just a bright spot in a room. They also have functional pine tables with beautiful design accents like pencil-shaped legs and sofas that look like lego bricks. Available: Studiometallurgyhome.com, ₹18,000-45,000 Get all the Business News, Market News, Breaking News Events and Latest News Updates on Live Mint. Download the Mint News app to get daily market updates. more topics #Features Read next story