10 Diwali games that’ll bring family and friends together for real fun

Diwali party games: Teen patti, Rummy, and Bluff are must-plays during Diwali parties (Image: Canva)

It’s Diwali, and the real celebration has only just started. With friends, family, food, and festive fun, Diwali is all about the joyful moments we share. So, this year, when you're together with your loved ones, skip the screens and dive into some memorable games that will make the night unforgettable.

Here are 10 exciting games to keep everyone entertained and laughing all night:

• Poker: A Diwali mandate, Poker brings out the thrill of winning and a bit of strategy. Gather around with your cards, whether for fun or with small bets. It's a fantastic way to break the ice, especially for newcomers. Just keep it lighthearted, Diwali is all about fun, not serious gambling.

• Card games: Teen patti, Rummy, and Bluff are must-plays during Diwali parties. Teen patti is like Poker but with simpler rules, perfect for everyone. Rummy is for those who love strategy, as you arrange cards in sequences and sets. For a light-hearted option, try Bluff, a hilarious, quick game that’s all about keeping a straight face. These games bring all ages together.

• Dumb charades: Nothing stirs up laughter like Dumb charades. Split into teams, act out movie titles, famous phrases, or even Diwali-themed words. Pick Bollywood films or festive phrases for a holiday twist. It’s all about exaggerated acting and wild guesses that guarantee endless laughter.

• Karaoke: The actual singer will get applause while the besura (bad singer) will bring out laughter. It’s a win-win both ways. Trigger your inner Indian idol iwith a Karaoke session. Grab a mic and sing along to Bollywood hits or festive songs. Karaoke is about having fun, so belt out those tunes, even if it’s off-key. For extra fun, score each performance on creativity and enthusiasm.

• Antakshari with a twist: Make Antakshari more exciting with themed rounds. Instead of just singing the next song, try themes like “90s Bollywood,” “love songs,” or “Shah rukh khan songs” or “songs with festivals.” This keeps everyone on their toes, and even the best singers will find it a fun challenge.

• Bollywood or Korean drama quiz: Turn up the competitive spirit with a quiz on Bollywood or Korean dramas. Prepare questions on iconic scenes, actors, and famous dialogues, and split into teams. From easy to tough rounds, everyone’s movie/ tv knowledge will be put to the test, and you might just discover some surprising binge-watching habits.

• Truth or dare (Diwali style): Add a festive twist to Truth or dare. Have dares like acting like a pathaka, performing a Bollywood dance, or speaking in Diwali rhymes. For truths, ask about funny Diwali memories or hidden talents. This game always stirs up laughter and brings out everyone’s playful side.

• Bingo with diwali jargons: Swap out traditional Bingo for a Diwali version with words like “diyas,” “sweets,” “rangoli,” and “firecrackers.” Mark off words instead of numbers and add fun twists like using Diwali jokes. With prizes for winners, this is sure to keep the excitement going.

• Diwali tambola with a pataka twist: Make Tambola (housie) festive by using Diwali symbols like diyas, sweets, and firecrackers instead of numbers. Each ticket becomes a mini Diwali scene, and calls like “Diya lights up” add to the fun. Name the prizes like “Lakshmi’s Treasure” for a full house, and Rocket for first line. This game is sure to light up the night.