Handcrafted Diwali Gifts: A Guide to Indian Crafts Worth Giving

Handcrafted Bharewa bell metal figurine

The short answer: the best handcrafted Diwali gifts are pieces with a clear origin and maker: a handloom Chanderi or Maheshwari saree, a Bharewa bell metal figurine, Budhni wooden lacquer toys for children, an original Gond painting, or hand block-printed textiles. Each is made by hand in the region its craft comes from.

For her: a handloom saree

A saree is still the most loved Diwali gift. A sheer Chanderi with zari butis feels festive and light; a Maheshwari silk-cotton is one she will wear long after the festival. Every Saptadhārā saree comes with its blouse piece. Not sure which? Read Chanderi vs Maheshwari.

For the home: Bharewa bell metal

Bharewa metal craft comes from the Betul district of Madhya Pradesh, where metalsmiths cast figures by hand: tribal musicians, elephants, deer, fish and Kamdhenu. It received a GI tag in 2025. A small figurine makes a lasting gift for a new home or a puja shelf. See bell metal décor.

For children: Budhni lacquer toys

In Budhni, on the banks of the Narmada, artisans turn soft local wood on a hand lathe and colour it with sticks of lac, which melt from the heat of friction into a smooth, glowing finish. Rattles, spinning tops, pull-along trains and stacking rings are free of synthetic paint and safe to handle, a thoughtful alternative to plastic. Browse Budhni lacquerware.

For the art lover: an original Gond painting

Gond paintings fill trees, birds and animals with fine lines and dots. Each is painted entirely by hand by artists of the Gond community, and no two are alike. Learn more in our guide to Gond art or browse wall art.

For everyday use: hand block prints and rugs

Unstitched dress material sets printed by hand in Bagh, Dabu and batik, or a cotton punja durrie rug woven on a traditional loom, are gifts that get used every day.

Order early for Diwali

Every piece is packed by hand, so please allow up to 2 weeks for delivery anywhere in India. Cash on delivery is available. For a video viewing or gifting help, message us on WhatsApp at +91 98366 50278.

Frequently asked questions

What is a good handmade Diwali gift?

A handloom saree, a bell metal figurine, wooden lacquer toys, an original Gond painting or hand block-printed textiles all make meaningful handmade Diwali gifts.

Are Budhni toys safe for children?

Budhni toys are coloured with natural lac rather than synthetic paint and are made to be handled. As with any small toy, supervise very young children.

How long does delivery take?

Please allow up to 2 weeks for delivery anywhere in India, so order early for Diwali.