When you think about festive celebrations, you often picture glowing diyas, plates of sweets, and gatherings filled with laughter. But this year, you could raise the mood even higher by learning the craft of storytelling through cocktails. Virendra Singh, one of Rajasthan’s leading mixologists and the visionary behind Maahaul India, believes every drink can carry emotion and culture in its glass.
With over a decade of experience, Virendra has shaped the bartending scene into something that feels personal and expressive. His work with the Rajasthan Bartenders Association has brought recognition to mixology as both a craft and a cultural bridge. Inspired by Indian spices, gemstones, and Rajasthan’s vibrant colours, his cocktails reflect a celebration of roots and imagination.
As the festive season approaches, you can take a cue from his philosophy and try your hand at a few of his DIY cocktail ideas. They’re designed to be approachable, festive, and full of warmth; perfect for when you gather with friends and family to celebrate the season of lights.
1. Gulab Sparkler
Inspired by the eternal Diwali mithai, Gulab Jamun.
Ingredients:
• 60 ml Gin or Vodka
• 20 ml Rose syrup
• 10 ml Lime juice
• Top with Sparkling water / soda
• Garnish: Rose petal & gold dust
Method:
Shake gin, rose syrup, and lime juice with ice. Strain into a glass, top with sparkle, and garnish.
tasting notes:- Sweet, floral, and festive with a touch of luxury.
2. Spiced Guava Delight
Bringing the street-style “guava & chaat masala” into a cocktail.
Ingredients:
• 60 ml Tequila or White Rum
• 90 ml Guava juice
• 5 ml Tabasco or chilli drops
• Pinch of Chaat masala & salt
• Garnish: Guava slice dipped in chilli-salt
Method:
Build in a glass with ice, stir gently, and garnish.
tasting notes:- A perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy; just like Diwali snacks.
3. Saffron Whisky Sour
Paying homage to the golden hues of Diwali diyas.
Ingredients:
• 60 ml Whisky
• 20 ml Honey-saffron syrup
• 20 ml Lemon juice
• 1 Egg white / Aquafaba (optional)
• Garnish: Saffron strand
Method:
Shake all ingredients vigorously for foam, add ice, shake again, and serve in a coupe.
tasting notes:- Smooth, rich, and glowing with saffron warmth.
4. Cardamom Espresso Martini
For the late-night card parties.
Ingredients:
• 45 ml Vodka
• 30 ml Fresh espresso
• 20 ml Coffee liqueur
• 10 ml Cardamom syrup
• Garnish: Coffee beans
Method:
Shake all ingredients hard with ice, strain into a martini glass.
tasting notes:- Strong, aromatic, and keeps the energy high through Diwali nights.
5. Thandai White Russian (Festive Fusion)
Because Diwali is incomplete without Indian festive flavors.
Ingredients:
• 45 ml Vodka
• 30 ml Coffee liqueur
• 60 ml Thandai milk (almonds, cardamom, saffron, fennel)
• Garnish: Crushed pistachios
Method:
Build over ice in a glass and stir gently.