You know that feeling when you walk into a room and it just feels... alive? That’s what Deepavali is like, and it’s a feeling I always chase around this time of year. Also known as the Festival of Lights, it's a celebration of good over evil and light over darkness. Everywhere you look, streets are sparkling with lamps and vibrant decorations, and the air is filled with the sweet aroma of traditional snacks. It’s a sensory feast that gets me every single time, and the best part is that you don't even have to be celebrating to join in on the fun.
My favourite part of the season? The shopping, of course! There's something so magical about getting ready for a festival. Here's my little guide to some of the best places to get your Deepavali shopping done this year, from dazzling outfits to mouth-watering sweets.
01 • Mustafa Centre
The one and only Mustafa Centre is a legend for a reason. It’s open 24/7, so whether you’re a night owl or a last-minute shopper (no judgement here!), you can get everything you need under one roof. The moment you step inside, you’re hit with this incredible energy. The aisles are packed with everything you could possibly imagine, and there’s a whole section dedicated to festive outfits, from beautiful sarees and Punjabi suits to intricate jewellery and accessories.
I could easily spend hours just wandering the aisles, admiring the way the light catches the intricate beadwork on a saree or the delicate shimmer of a necklace. It's truly a one-stop-shop for all your Deepavali needs, and you can even pick up some last-minute groceries while you’re there.
📍 Address: 145 Syed Alwi Road, Singapore 207704
📞 Phone: 6295 5855
⏰ Opening hours: Open 24 hours daily
🌐 Website: mustafa.com.sg/
02 • Serangoon Road Boutiques
If you’re looking for something with a bit more of a personal touch, you have to explore the boutiques along Serangoon Road. The whole area, particularly the Deepavali Festival Village on Campbell Lane and Hastings Road, transforms into a vibrant carnival of colours and sounds.
You’ll find a treasure trove of ready-to-wear outfits and fabrics just waiting to be discovered. Each boutique offers something unique, and I love walking from one shop to the next, admiring all the different designs and embellishments on display. The air is always buzzing with excitement, and the street itself is adorned with beautiful lights and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere that’s impossible to resist.
📍Address: Serangoon Road
03 • Nimbu
Nothing can stop a mum on a mission. Spotting a gap in the market for high-quality and comfortable children’s clothes, Kriti Saj decided to do it herself. And she sure did one heck of a job.
Tailoring her clothes to her own children's needs, she designs high-quality, comfortable, and stylish wear. Fashionistas who also love sustainable brands, Nimbu has got you covered. This conscious clothing label is all about blending tradition with a modern, eco-friendly twist. You can find them offline at The Green Collective in Funan Mall and more!
📍 Address: Funan Mall, 107 North Bridge Road, 02-18, 179105. See other locations
📞 Phone: 8538 3446
⏰ Opening hours: 11am – 9pm daily
🌐 Website: nimbu.sg/
04 • Jothi Store and Flower Shop
No Deepavali celebration is complete without flowers and decorations, and Jothi Store and Flower Shop is the place to be for all things traditional. Once you step in, your senses will be overwhelmed with the pleasant fragrance of marigolds and jasmine filling the air. The store is packed full of everything you’ll need, from vibrant flower garlands and clay diyas to rangoli powders and intricate torans.
It’s a place where you can find all the little trinkets that bring a home to life during the festival. My friend religiously picks pink rice powders for a kolam design every year without fail. There are also many beautiful, handmade decorations that keep us shopping for hours.
📍Address: 1 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209882
📞 Phone: 6338 7008
⏰Opening hours: 9:30am – 9pm daily
🌐Website: jothi.com.sg/
05 • Moghul Sweet Shop
After all that shopping, you’ll definitely need a treat. And trust me, you can't go wrong with Moghul Sweet Shop. Once you enter, you’re met with densely packed shelves full of sweets and pastries. A display case shows off a vibrant assortment of goodies, wafting a delightful sweet aroma.
Their sweets, or mithai, are all about capturing the essence of classic Indian treats. You have to try their crisp, syrupy jalebi or the soft, juicy rasgulla. Each bite is a burst of rich flavour and pure joy.
I always leave with a box of different sweets to share with family and friends. It’s a great way to spread some festive cheer and earn some brownie points with my relatives.
📍 Address: 48 Serangoon Road, #01-16, Singapore 217959
📞 Phone: 9230 9400
⏰ Opening hours: 9:30am - 9pm daily
🌐 Website: moghulsweets.com
06 • For Desi by Desi
If you’re someone who loves one-of-a-kind finds, this is the place for you. I recently stumbled upon their Instagram page and was blown away by their beautiful, handcrafted pieces.
They have everything from unique home decor to stunning jewellery that perfectly blends traditional Indian aesthetics with a modern, fresh vibe. If you’re looking for a statement piece, chances are you’ll find it here!
📍 Address: 30 Buffalo Road, Singapore 219794 (Next to Karthika Supermarket)
📞 Phone: 8751 9241
⏰ Opening hours: Tue to Sun, 1pm – 9pm
🌐Website: instagram.com/for_desi_by_desi/
07 • Harmaris
Looking for a new saree that's truly special? You need to check out Harmaris. They have a gorgeous selection of sarees that are vibrant and rich in texture, perfect for any festive occasion.
The moment you walk in, you’re surrounded by a stunning array of colours and fabrics that are just calling out to be touched. They also have an impressive collection of sparkling jewellery to complete your Deepavali look. With their vast collection of fashion pieces, picky shoppers will be able to shop to their hearts' content.
📍 Address: 2 Serangoon Road, #01-22/23 Tekka Place, Singapore 218227
📞 Phone: 8189 3016
⏰ Opening hours: Mon to Sat, 11:30am – 8pm | Sun, 12pm – 5pm
🌐 Website: harmaris.com
08 • Naina Nisa
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind outfit that’s both modern and deeply rooted in tradition, you’ve got to check out Naina Nisa. I absolutely adore how they blend classic designs with a contemporary twist, creating pieces that feel fresh and timeless all at once. Their designs are so intricate, with beautiful embroidery and rich fabrics that are an absolute dream to wear. Every piece feels like a work of art, and each piece makes me feel really special when I put it on!
I love that they also offer custom tailoring, so you can get a perfect fit that makes you feel confident and ready to celebrate. It’s definitely a place where you can find something that’s both festive and fashionable, perfect for any Deepavali get-together.
🌐Website: nainanisastudio.com
So, whether you’re heading out to pick up some last-minute gifts, a new outfit, or just want to soak in the festive vibes around Little India, there is something here for everyone.
Happy exploring, and see you on the road!
Amanda 💙
(Featured photo adapted from: Traveloka, HomeTeamNS, Flickr, Tekka Place)
