Every Diwali, I find myself looking a little closer at how brands are interpreting the festival. From thoughtful creative partnerships to beautifully considered collections, there are always a few that stand out.
This year has been no exception. Here are five collaborations that particularly caught my eye…
Stanley 1913 × Nest
Stanley 1913 × Nest
Stanley 1913 marked its first Diwali collection with a collaboration celebrating traditional Indian craftsmanship.
Created in partnership with Nest, a non-profit organisation, and artisans at Tharangini Studio in Bangalore, India, the collection draws inspiration from traditional Indian block printing, with bespoke motifs translated onto Stanley's signature drinkware.
Featuring delicate paisley patterns and henna-inspired motifs in a soft rose palette with gold accents, the designs bring a contemporary feel to traditional Indian artistry.
Stanley 1913 has a history of working with non-profit organisations to support causes aligned with its brand values. This partnership feels like a thoughtful extension of that approach, bringing the artisans and their craftsmanship into the spotlight.
Biskut Bar × Heleena Theodore
Heleena Theodore’s artwork for Biskut Bar’s Diwali keep sake tin
Biskut Bar is a South Asian-owned brand putting a playful twist on some of India's most loved flavours, reimagining them in biscuit form!
With a commitment to supporting South Asian artists, the brand brought this ethos to life through its Diwali collaboration with UK-based artist Heleena Theodore.
The result is a beautifully designed, limited-edition keepsake tin featuring Heleena's bespoke artwork and filled with Biskut Bar's signature spiced biscuits.
What I particularly love about this collaboration is the way one South Asian business is championing another South Asian creative. It's a partnership that feels natural, bringing together two distinct creative identities through a shared cultural celebration.
And the result? A lovely keepsake that celebrates both art and food.
Lush × Kushiaania
Know Wrap designed by Kushiannia for Lush
I've always admired Lush's approach to Diwali, particularly its commitment to involving people who celebrate the festival in the creative process.
Through its Co-Create programme, Lush works with individuals from different cultural backgrounds to help shape products and collections that reflect their lived experiences.
This year, the collection also features artwork by illustrator Kushiaania, a personal favourite of mine! Her bold, colourful and playful illustration style feels like a perfect match for Lush. Featured on the limited-edition Diwali knot wrap, her design captures the joy of the festival through a wonderfully whimsical lens.
It's a beautiful example of how traditional Diwali imagery can be reinterpreted in a fresh, contemporary way while still feeling connected to its cultural roots.
Cutter & Squidge × Chaaya Prabhat
Artwork: Chaaya Prabhat for Cutter & Squidge
I've had my eye on Cutter & Squidge's Diwali collections for a few years now, but this year's offering has certainly taken things up a notch!
Teaming up with South Asian illustrator Chaaya Prabhat, the brand has created a colourful collection of Indian-inspired cakes and sweet treats, perfect for festive gatherings and gifting.
Chaaya's vibrant illustrations beautifully capture the energy and joy of Diwali. Her playful artwork transforms the packaging into something that feels just as celebratory as the treats inside.
It's a lovely reminder of how thoughtful packaging design can elevate a product into a memorable gifting experience.
Apple × Raw Mango
Apple x Raw Mango Step Into The Light film
Last, but definitely not least, is Apple's latest Diwali film, Step Into the Light, created in collaboration with Indian fashion brand Raw Mango.
Directed by Raw Mango founder Sanjay Garg, the film explores the idea of moving from darkness into light, a theme deeply connected to the spirit of Diwali.
Shot entirely on the iPhone 18 Pro at Tijara Fort, a restored 19th-century royal palace in Rajasthan, the film features a diverse cast of performers from across India.
What makes this collaboration particularly interesting is the way it brings together technology, fashion and cultural storytelling.
Following Apple's Diwali film last year, this latest release offers another visually compelling interpretation of the festival, while showcasing Raw Mango's distinctive saris, garments and design aesthetic.
Having made its international runway debut at London Fashion Week earlier this year, Raw Mango's collaboration with Apple feels like another exciting moment for Indian design on a global stage.
Final Thoughts
Looking across these collaborations, one thing stands out to me: the growing emphasis on working with South Asian creatives to tell stories rooted in cultural experience.
Whether through traditional craftsmanship, illustration, food or film, each partnership offers a different interpretation of Diwali, bringing heritage and contemporary creativity together.
For me, the most meaningful collaborations are those that go beyond simply creating a festive collection. They're an opportunity to introduce new audiences to South Asian creativity, celebrate cultural heritage and give talented creatives a wider platform.
And that's something I'd love to see more of.