Nov 04, 2026 5:00pm IST
Manish Malhotra Scales Down Annual Diwali Party to Intimate Gathering After Mother’s Demise
Celebrated couturier Manish Malhotra is scaling back his signature star-studded Diwali celebrations this year, opting for a quiet, intimate gathering following the recent passing of his mother.
For years, Malhotra’s annual festive bash has stood as a crown jewel on Mumbai’s social calendar, routinely drawing the A-listers of the film industry. The designer reveals that navigating this profound personal loss has shifted his focus away from grand festivities, choosing instead to honor a festival his mother deeply cherished in a deeply private way.
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“Because of the loss of my mother, I am not in the mood to have a party for 400 friends," Malhotra shares about his party tonight. "My mother loved Diwali. She loved calling people home, hosting dinners, and everything that came with the festival. Diwali was her favorite. So, I am having a party, but it will be intimate.”
The designer’s upcoming milestone 60th birthday on December 5 will mirror this low-key approach. Rather than an elaborate industry gala, Malhotra plans to mark the occasion quietly, potentially traveling out of town or hosting a small evening with a tight-knit circle of friends.
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The decision marks a stark departure from the sheer scale of previous years. The designer's 2025 Diwali bash was a masterclass in star power, welcoming titans like Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Rekha, and Gauri Khan alongside next-generation stars Suhana Khan and Nysa Devgn. The 2024 edition was equally high-profile, featuring Alia Bhatt, Kiara Advani, Sidharth Malhotra, Janhvi Kapoor, and Ananya Panday.
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