India, Oct. 19 -- Delhi's Diwali parties are legendary, not just for their scale and glamour, but also for the intimate, heartwarming gatherings that unfold alongside the grand bashes. "They're a spectacle of high fashion - guests arrive in custom-made designer wear and heirloom jewellery, embracing a bold, expressive, and elegant Delhi aesthetic," says art collector Shalini Passi, adding that the real action begins post-midnight. "Delhi knows how to party, and during Diwali, it doesn't stop at midnight," she smiles. "Many events go on till 4 or 5 in the morning, with breakfast served just before guests leave. Card games often run all night, some of my friends take them very seriously, with high-stakes tables and professional dealers." She adds that there's no single template for a Delhi Diwali bash. "Some are massive, with 200-300 guests, elaborate decor, international entertainers and return gifts almost wedding-worthy. Others are smaller, home-hosted affairs, where food is made using family recipes and every decor detail is curated in-house." This year, however, Shalini plans to keep it quiet: "I'll be in Varanasi for Diwali, photographing the city, visiting temples, and soaking in the spiritual energy. For me, Diwali is as much about introspection, prayer and giving as it is about celebration."...