Diwali Drinks Get an Indian Makeover
As the festival of lights approaches, cafés and restaurants across India are giving the beloved matcha a desi twist. From gulab jamun matcha to fruit matchas, this Diwali is all about celebrating vibrant flavours that blend Indian nostalgia with Japanese sophistication.
Adding Sweetness to the Festivities
Matcha paired with kulfi is emerging as a nostalgic yet modern fusion.
Annie Bafna, founder of Noa by The Nutcracker, explains,
“We wanted to add something Indian that connects with everyone. Matcha and kulfi bring changing flavour sensations—from nostalgia to contemporary freshness.”
Social media’s obsession with matcha has helped it reach beyond Gen Z, with even the 30–50 age group now exploring this green tea phenomenon.
And of course, Diwali isn’t complete without motichoor ladoos.
At Tokyo Matcha Bar, co-founder Meher Kohli introduced the Motichoor Matcha, a drink layered with desi ghee motichoor ladoo, milk, ice, vegan cold foam, and a mini ladoo on top.
“We wanted to celebrate Indian mithai culture and Japanese tea traditions in one cup,” says Kohli.
The Gulab Jamun Matcha by Spill the Tea brings a similar blend of cultures.
Founder Ryan Soares describes,
“It’s got a balance of sweet, milky, floral gulab jamun notes that perfectly complement matcha’s earthy freshness.”
Fruity Twists for the Health-Conscious
At Café Delhi Heights, Chef Ashish Singh has crafted fruit-based matchas for those who want flavour and wellness in one sip.
“From mango to coconut and strawberry blends, these drinks evoke tropical Indian festivity,” says Singh.
The Strawberry Matcha, with its lush pink-green hues, captures Diwali’s vibrance — balancing sweetness with earthy calmness.
Nutty Aromas Meet Festive Cheer
For those craving richness, Third Wave Coffee’s Iced Pistachio Matcha celebrates nutty and aromatic notes.
Rajat Luthra, CEO of the brand, says,
“We’re blending innovation with nostalgia — experiences that feel celebratory, comforting, and reflective of Diwali’s spirit.”
This season, the humble cup of matcha has transformed into a celebration of flavour, tradition, and togetherness — a delicious symbol of how India reinvents global trends in its own festive way.
