Diwali, the time of year when everything seems a little brighter, happier, and more hopeful (especially this year, we need all the hope we can get). This celebration of triumph over evil is celebrated with loads of diyas, fuljhadiyaan, mithai, and the sweet exchange of love and gifts between family and friends around the world.
[Read Related: 30 South Asian Brands you Need to Shop from this Holiday Season]
While we celebrate Diwali and the holidays keeping social distancing parameters in mind, it’s the best time to exchange gifts with loved ones you’ll likely see only virtually this year. Parcel them a gift from a small business you can be proud to support. And to help you with some gift ideas, we’ve compiled a list of South Asian brands you can shop from for Diwali and beyond.
As a small business ourselves, we value nothing more than companies and brands bridging the gap between our hyphenated identities and worlds. More so, we’re grateful and humbled to have worked with almost every business on the list below in a collaboration or paid partnership capacity over the years.
Not an exhaustive gift list but definitely one worth browsing. We’ve seamlessly categorized the list with children’s toys and learning tools to inclusive beauty and skincare products and must-have-statement pieces with a fusion twist. You’re bound to find a little something for yourself and all the favorite people in your life.
Cheering up the Children
In need of something for the little ones in your life? Add a touch of tradition, and the spark of festivities to their Diwali and holidays, with the gifts from the following:
Kulture Khazana
Because you have to start them young, “mompreneur,” Akruti founded this brand to help children learn about their heritage and stay connected to their roots. (Apply discount code ‘BG15’ for 15 percent off here.)
View this post on Instagram
Bolo Bolo Baby
There’s nothing better than hearing them say “namaste” and keeping the tradition alive. Bolo Bolo Baby helps families learn Hindi and Gujrati, around the globe.
View this post on Instagram
Jai Jai Hooray
Give them the gift of folklore with toys and tools inspired by the vibrance of our South Asian culture and stories!
View this post on Instagram
Modi Toys
Baby Ganesh®, Baby Krishna, Baby Hanuman? They have them all, plus more, in Diwali gifts that will cheer up any little one!
View this post on Instagram
Desi Babies
Bringing a taste of South Asian culture to children’s lives through books and diverse products made to make learning fun!
View this post on Instagram
Mango and Marigold Press
Sharing the power of the word, Mango and Marigold Press are telling stories of the sweet and complex South Asian experience (p.s: pre-order Brown Girl’s first-ever anthology ‘untold: defining moments of the uprooted’ via Mango & Marigold Press).
View this post on Instagram
The Heritage Supply Co.
The right toys make a world of a difference in the life of children, especially the ones that help preserve South Asian heritage and traditions.
View this post on Instagram
Indigrow Kids
There’s never a dull moment in the house with cultural games from Indigrow Kids!
View this post on Instagram
Khaylo Toys
Looking for toys, tools, and books to make it easier to teach kids about their South Asian culture? Khaylo Toys has it all to help! Give them one of their gifts and say, “jao, Khaylo!”
View this post on Instagram
Sanskar Teaching
Teaching your little ones Hindi and Gujrati just got easier — let Sanskar Teaching look after it through their learning tools and resources.
View this post on Instagram
Bubbsi Natural Baby Skincare
Nothing says peace-of-mind more than knowing that you’re applying all-natural ingredients on your child’s skin. Know any parents who would want to do the same? Who wouldn’t?! Bubbsi is your one-stop-shop.
View this post on Instagram
Lark Adventurewear
Super comfortable and sustainable clothing made for kids is what every parent is looking for — make a parent’s life easy and start their child off with their own collection of Lark Adeventurewear. They’ll thank you!
View this post on Instagram
LingoDodo
With more than 115 songs, melodies, sounds and phrases, the language pad (available in Punjabi, Hindi and Gujurati) set up your little ones for success and bridges the gap between their hyphenated identities perfectly. (Apply discount code ‘BG10’ for $10 off here).
View this post on Instagram
Jhumkas and Jewels
Know that certain someone who can’t do with their gehnas? Give these small businesses a shot and add another pair of jhumkas to their collection?
Banglez
Gorgeous chooriyaan, glittering chokers, and charismatic Kundan — they have it all! (And check out their newest handmade jewelry line — Tenasati — made with natural crystals and paired with a specially curated blend of 100% pure essential oils.)
View this post on Instagram
Hyperbole Accessories
Add a handy touch to your gift this year with hand-crafted jewelry from Hyberbole Accessories — designed in California, made in India.
View this post on Instagram
This is Alaya
This one is for that bold and chic girl in your life — we all know that someone!
View this post on Instagram
ReeMat Designs
Gift a piece of statement jewelry with designs inspired by both the east and the west — it’s the best of both worlds, that’s for sure!
View this post on Instagram
The Pink Bazaar
Pieces of artisan jewelry will make for the perfect, and most memorable, Diwali gift this year.
View this post on Instagram
Saeyri
A modern jewelry designed for those with an eclectic taste; crafted with classic tools by artisans rooted in local traditions. Founded by Indian designpreneurs Manasvi and Rujuta, their modern jewelry is designed for those with a free spirit. (Apply discount code ‘BG10’ for 10 percent off here.)
A Feast for the Foodie!
Everything is better with a plate of food that gracefully bridges the gap between your hyphenated identity.
Malai
Help someone relish in the decadency of ice-cream and culture with a little something from Malai.
View this post on Instagram
Ahista Tea
Based in Toronto, Ahista Tea brings to mind the art of slow and savoring each moment with thoughtfulness and intention. They elevate tea experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants, boutique hotels and cafés. (Apply discount code BrownGirl10 for 10 percent off here.)
Sambar Kitchen
New-age natural South Asian-centric sauces (lemon, tomato, mango coconut, pineapple coconut and madras lentils) that you can heat up in a pot or microwave and add it to anything like rice, chicken, and even pasta (their ‘pasta & pizza sauce’ is seriously worth trying).
Simply Mithai
The handcrafted mithais are made with reduced sugar and the flavor profiles are created with our western palates in mind. Most of all, the founder Ambreen focuses on the flavors of the products using the freshest ingredients and making each one with lots of love.
Brooklyn Delhi
Chitra’s Brooklyn Delhi story starts like many of ours — having rejected her ‘Indianness’ during school in her small New Jersey town. Gift their plant-based simmer sauces, achaars & condiments to a foodie.
ByWoops!
Whether you’re buying for a loved one or a new friend, macaroons make for the sweetest and memorable gift. Best part is, all of their macarons and a majority of our pastries are all made in a bakery in the Bronx.
One Stripe Chai Co
Chai concentrates are perfect for chai loves practicing social distancing. Here’s how it works: the One Stripe Chai Co formula needs to be mixed with milk in a 1-to-1 ratio, so four ounces of concentrate will make an eight-ounce cup of chai.
Desi Galli
Take a trip down memory lane with sweet and savory delicacies from your local street food vendor! They’re bringing you the taste of home, away from home.
View this post on Instagram
The Chai Box
Nothing says “Happy Diwali” better than a warm cup of chai — let The Chai Box help you make the moment special.
View this post on Instagram
Milk and Cardamom Sweets
Cakes, cookies, and mithai will add the sweetest touch to anyone’s Diwali celebrations. Don’t you agree?
View this post on Instagram
Kolkata Chai
Kolkata Chai started with a simple idea: How do we extend the authenticity, respect and tradition behind a cup of masala chai to NYC? Chai has been repeatedly bastardized and appropriated in the U.S. Theyre putting it all on the line to make sure our culture and traditions are represented accurately and honestly.
Clothing to Cherish
Thinking of dressing up for the many virtual and intimate holiday plans that are starting to pile on? Look no further.
LadkiPower
Empower yourself with some Ladki Power gear. Brown Girl Magazine’s exclusive label offers hoodies, crop tops, and tee shirts for you to rock — go ahead, feel stylish and unleash that #ladkipower!
Shop Kynah
Why wouldn’t someone love handmade attire that speaks a thousand words?
View this post on Instagram
Amu Cherian
Find home decor and scarves beautifully block printed or ice/naturally dyed. A gift from Amu Cherian will be one-of-a-kind.
View this post on Instagram
Aara by Sana
Give a gift of sustainability — pieces from Aara by Sana will not only make you stand out in a crowd but will also make you proud of supporting a brand with a strong mission.
View this post on Instagram
WestxEast
A brand founded for the global South Asian diaspora, WestxEast is everything chic and trendy!
View this post on Instagram
Phera
Pick up a lehenga, a fun saree, and even a jewelry piece for that special person in your life — they have it all!
View this post on Instagram
holiCHIC™ by Megha Rao
This fashion label brings contemporary pieces and fun accessories including scrunchies and belts right to your closet, making them the perfect gift for yourself (or loved ones).
View this post on Instagram
Pajama Sutra
Who doesn’t like to stay home and lounge? Help someone #LoungeLikeAGoddess with her very own piece from Pajama Sutra.
View this post on Instagram
Ammarah
A brand bringing together multiple conscious fashion brands, Ammarah will help you give gorgeous and well-thought-out holiday wear.
View this post on Instagram
Harleen Kaur
Clothing that’s ethically-designed and eco-conscious can never go wrong!
View this post on Instagram
Sani
Sani was founded in 2017 with the goal of increasing the visibility of South Asian craftsmanship and techniques. Now run between Delhi, India and North Carolina, Sani creates approachable-luxe, thoughtfully designed, and culturally inspired clothing and accessories.
LUKH Studio
A new online rental service dedicated to giving everyone an equal opportunity to experience South Asian culture through fashion.
View this post on Instagram
Here comes the Sun ?? @browngirlmag CEO, @tsakhuja_walia, in the Roshni Lengha. . . roshni = light
House of Naveda
A bespoke private label influenced by a bohemian-meets-couture lifestyle. the mission is to combine hand-craftsmanship with timeless silhouettes that are versatile, allowing for both classic and fresh elements.
Xaura
An ethical brand led by a female South Asian founder based in New Zealand and Fiji, who champions hand craftsmanship.
View this post on Instagram
Anis Collections
Their speciality is to create custom outfits for their brides, grooms and their bridal party — keeping in mind size, shape, style, silhouette, and your unique style. While the founders of the fashion label have been busy sewing 100s of masks for their local healthcare community this year, they launched their spring/summer collection — inspired by memories of home and the many scents of rose fragrances the founder would smell around her home.
Riya Collective
On a mission to re-invent fashion consumption to be more diverse, sustainable, and equitable, Arian and Sarina started to become the South Asian Rent the Runway. Shop and gift sustainably with Riya Collective by renting your next desi outfit.
View this post on Instagram
real queens fix each others crowns ? outfits: @riyacollective photos by @ohshewonders
Shop Bhav
Beyond the design aesthetic, the core message behind BHAV is to embrace your heritage, in the way you choose to. For the founder Bhavana, that comes through in designs that reflect her multicultural identity.
Skincare Anyone?
Nothing beats the gift of confident skin! Keep reading to see brands that will please the skincare enthusiast in your life.
Sahajan
Skincare based off of the ancient science of Ayurveda, Sahajan provides “high performance” products that have great results.
View this post on Instagram
LIVE TINTED
Find the right hue, every single time, in each product at LIVE TINTED — cruelty-free, vegan, and inclusive.
View this post on Instagram
SOMA AYURVEDIC™
Ayurvedic skincare and beauty products at their best, brought to you by SOMA.
View this post on Instagram
Ranavat
Gift the gift of Ranavat skincare and embrace the idea of treating your skin like royalty.
View this post on Instagram
Shaz and Kiks
Know someone who’s all about their mane? Give them the present of ayurvedic and science-backed haircare products — they’ll love you!
View this post on Instagram
Aavrani
Does someone on your list believe in ancient rituals? Aavrani offers Indian-inspired skincare options for them to explore!
View this post on Instagram
Rella Beauty
Rella’s founder Raisa started working on the company with a focused vision of empowering womxn around the world to feel more empowered and confident, through the gift of beauty. After learning how impactful small luxuries can be, she was inspired. Her goal is to make sure Rella Beauty promotes intentional buying through good quality product with a strong, tangible social impact.
Vasanti Cosmetics
Get the best of skincare products by shopping at Vasanti Cosmetics this holiday seaons. May I suggest their Liquid VO2 Color Correcting Concealer, specifically meant for olive skin tones and work wonders?!
Journ Beauty
Journ — created by Sarah Shah — is skincare-focused-cosmetics that will conceal specific skin concerns for a flawless look and also help improve them over time. With five color correctors meant to conceal dark circles, hyperpigmentation, redness from acne and more, it’s the newest South Asian beauty product to gift and add to your makeup bag.
Bili Beauty
Made with natural and organic ingredients, the founder Sarah Thomas’ mission is to bring attention to India’s beautifully diverse cultures through the art and science of makeup.
Creative Crafts & More
Give the gift of creativity to your loved ones near and far.
Masala My Life
Add a little bit of masala to your list of gifts with gift boxes, jewelry, and more (shameless plug: we’re releasing a limited time LadkiPower x Masala my Life box, stay tuned!)
View this post on Instagram
Scrumptious Wicks
You can never have enough candles — hand-poured, soy/coconut wax candles are what everyone wants to light this festive season!
View this post on Instagram
Pyarful™
Don’t forget the right holiday card to go with your thoughtful gift — Pyarful has them all (they even have the most colorful tealights for Diwali).
View this post on Instagram
Paper Samosa
Is there a doodler in your life? Give them tees, mugs, or other accessories printed with the ultimate, South Asian-inspired doodles they’ll love!
View this post on Instagram
Teal Firefly
A special moment deserves a special gift — make their Diwali party pack the gift to give this year!
View this post on Instagram
The Cute Pista
Thinking of what unique Diwali gifts to give to your unique friends? The Cute Pista has some cutesy and fun items in store for you to check out.
View this post on Instagram
JioSaavn
And of course, how can we forget music lovers? Give the gift of their favorite tunes to the person who can’t get enough of their sa, re, ga, ma, pa.
View this post on Instagram
SOIELI
Hand-painted silk hair accessories crafted in New York City — creating a wearable art piece to elevate your every day look.
Desi Chaat
A one-of-kind family game with 1,500 desi words and a ton of laughs — something we all need more of this holiday.
Pretty Pokets
Pretty Pokets is all about helping other moms. The founder Madhu put her hardware engineer experience and understanding into re-designing bags and accessories that bring harmony between usefulness, commonsense, and fashion.
And there you have it, 60+ South Asian brands you can shop small from this holiday season.