Prep for Diwali with DIY workshops
There's no better way to deck up your home than with your own works of art. Get your kids to sign up for a toran- and lantern-making workshop in Goregaon (23 October). Or show up at Mia Cucina, Powai, for a paint-and-dine session (23 October). On the same day, learn how to make a solar lantern at Todi Mill Social, Lower Parel. The Hab by Usha will help you make cool décor and gift items such as cushion covers, card holders, bags, tassels, coasters and Diwali cards. Show up at their Khar studio from now until 30 October (except Thursdays).
Shop at lantern street at Mahim
On any other day, LJ Road at Mahim is an unremarkable stretch of land. During Diwali, though, it puts up perhaps Mumbai's most impressive display of lanterns. On sale are ‘kandeels' of all colours, sizes and shapes, which is why some of Mumbai's most famous residents—Lata Mangeshkar included—buy their lanterns from here.
Take a photowalk
Capture the pre-Diwali chaos and colour with a photowalk through Lohar Chawl, where much of Mumbai shops for its lights. Organised by Aberrant Wanderers, the photowalk starts at 6pm on 23 October. Details here.
Watch the city all lit up
There's no contest: Mumbai looks its best and brightest during Diwali. Lanterns, fairy lights, lamps and everything that glows and shines is on every other window and ledge in the city. Drive through Juhu, past pretty homes of pretty people; down Bandra, unusually empty but all lit up; over the sea-link for a view of the twinkling shoreline and down to the island city, where the CST building will wear its Diwali colours. For a more serene experience, head to Banganaga tank, which comes alive with hundreds of tiny floating lamps.
Binge on traditional Maharashtrian faral
Damn the calories—it's Diwali! Park yourself at one of the many modest Marathi restaurants at Dadar, Parel or Vile Parle for sinful treats. While shrikhand and puri are di rigueur, it's the faral you should attack. From kanolas to chaklis, shops in these three suburbs stock up on some of the state's finest sweets and savouries. Two words: pig out!
Watch the fireworks
Some of the most spectacular display of fireworks takes place at Marine Drive and Charni Road. From rockets to sky lanterns, it's all happening here. Park yourself anywhere along the stretch for a seat to this brilliant display. Or book yourself a table at one of the many sea-facing restaurants and bars along the stretch and watch the Queen's Necklace sparkle brighter than ever. Up north, Worli Seaface and Shivaji Park also pack some serious pyrotechnics.
Trade some stock
Ring yourself a year of good fortune at the bourses by booking a token trade during the special "Muhurat Trade" hour. This year, muhurat trading on BSE and NSE takes place on Sunday, 30 October, between 6.30 and 7.30pm. Regulars at the market consider it auspicious to buy a few stocks (or book nominal profits) during this session.