Happy Diwali!

The word Diwali (which is fixed according to the Indian calendar rather than our own) is derived from the Sanskrit deepavali, which can be translated as 'a row of lights' and the festival either marks the return of Rama to his kingdom of Ayodha after 14 years exile, or celebrates the victory of Krishna over a particularly fierce demon called Narkasura, depending on who you ask, or more accurately in what part of India you ask the question.

Diwali is also significant for Indian businessmen, as for many it's the end of the financial year and that means the ceremonial starting of a new ledger.

In Northern India Diwali is celebrated with presents of sweets and candles.

At Masala Zone and Chutney Mary the Diwali celebrations will be running until Sunday 18 November. There will be special Diwali thalis and sweet srikhand dishes at Masala Zone and at Chutney Mary there will be special thalis and dishes decorated with gold leaf.

Masala Zone , 9 Marshall Street, W1 (020 7287 9966)

Chutney Mary , 535 King's Road, SW10 (020 7351 3131).