Diwali Food Traditions and How to Celebrate With Indian Food in Slough

What Is Diwali, and Why Does Food Matter So Much?

Diwali is the festival of lights, a five-day celebration that marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes are cleaned and decorated, diyas are lit, and families gather to celebrate together.

Food runs through the whole festival. Meals are prepared in bigger quantities than usual, neighbours and friends drop by, and nobody is allowed to leave without eating something. It's a celebration where hospitality really is part of the tradition.

Sweets, and the Tradition of Sharing

Ask anyone what they associate with Diwali food, and sweets will come up almost immediately. Gulab jamun, jalebi, barfi and laddoo are all popular, and boxes of mithai are often exchanged between families as gifts.

The idea behind it is simple. Sharing something sweet is a way of sharing good wishes for the year ahead. It's less about the dessert itself and more about the gesture.

The Savoury Side of the Table

Alongside the sweets, Diwali meals tend to be generous and rich. Families often cook dishes that take a little more time and care than a usual weeknight dinner.

Rich North Indian curries, fragrant biryanis, paneer dishes and breads are all common choices, and many families prefer vegetarian food during the festival, though customs vary between regions and households. If you're curious about how the different curries compare, our guide to classic Indian curries explains what sets each one apart. The common thread is variety. A Diwali table usually has plenty of different dishes, so everyone can try a bit of everything.

Celebrating Diwali Over a Restaurant Meal

Not everyone has the time, or the kitchen space, to cook a full festive spread at home. Cooking for a big group while also welcoming guests can mean missing most of the celebration.

Eating out solves that problem. Indian food is naturally suited to sharing, so a group can order a mix of starters, curries, tandoori dishes, breads and rice and enjoy it all together, which feels very close to the spirit of a Diwali meal.

Raj by Sherri's is an Indian restaurant in Slough on High Street, serving North Indian and Mughlai dishes, tandoori favourites, biryanis, Indo-Chinese dishes and a wide mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. That range matters when you're feeding family members with different tastes.

Dishes to Consider for a Diwali Gathering

If you're ordering for a group, it helps to include a bit of everything, something to start, something rich, something with a little spice, and something for the vegetarians at the table.

• Something to start: Chicken 65 and Honey Chilli Chicken are easy to share while everyone settles in.
• Something rich and aromatic: Lamb Rogan Josh is a slow-cooked, fragrant curry that suits a special occasion.
• Something mild and creamy: Chicken Korma is a good choice for children and for guests who prefer less heat.
• Something with a kick: Chicken Vindaloo is there for the spice lovers in the family.
• Something vegetarian: Paneer Tikka Masala is smoky, creamy and easy to share.
• Something unusual: Methi Chicken brings a distinctive fenugreek flavour that sits a little apart from the usual favourites.

For a centrepiece dish, a biryani placed in the middle of the table works especially well for sharing. You can browse the full menu to build the rest of the spread.

Dine In, Takeaway or Delivery

How you celebrate can depend on the day. If you want everyone together in one place without the washing up, dining in is the easiest choice. If you'd rather host at home, takeaway, collection and delivery mean you can enjoy a restaurant meal around your own table.

Raj currently offers dine-in, takeaway, collection and delivery, along with private dining and event catering, with menus that can be tailored to the occasion. That's useful to know if your Diwali plans involve a larger group, such as a family get-together or a celebration with friends.

A Few Tips for Planning Ahead

Festival weekends tend to be busy everywhere, so a little planning goes a long way.

• Decide on numbers early. Knowing how many adults and children are coming makes ordering much easier.
• Mention dietary needs. If anyone is vegetarian or has allergies, tell the team in advance.
• Order a variety. Sharing a few different dishes works better than everyone choosing their own plate.
• Get in touch for larger groups. If you're planning something bigger, speak to the team about private dining.

Celebrate Diwali Around a Full Table

Diwali is about light, family and generosity, and a shared meal brings all three together. Whether you're hosting a big family gathering or having a quiet dinner with friends, good food makes the evening feel like a celebration.

If you're looking for Indian food in Slough this Diwali, visit Raj by Sherri's on High Street, explore the menu, or get in touch to plan your gathering.

 

FAQs

When is Diwali in 2026?
Diwali falls on Sunday, 8 November 2026.

What food is traditionally eaten at Diwali?
Sweets such as gulab jamun, jalebi, barfi and laddoo are very popular, alongside rich curries, rice dishes and breads. Customs vary between regions and families.

Can I celebrate Diwali with a group at Raj by Sherri's?
Yes. Raj offers dine-in and private dining, with menus that can be tailored to the occasion. Get in touch with the team to discuss your plans.

Does Raj by Sherri's offer takeaway and delivery?
Yes. The restaurant offers dine-in, takeaway, collection and delivery.

Are there vegetarian options on the menu?
Yes. The menu includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, such as Paneer Tikka Masala