Diwali is a joyful time for friends and family, a celebration of light’s triumph over darkness that brings people together. On November 4, Cartier and the Valiram Group celebrated this vibrant festival with a special evening filled with elegance and hospitality to pay tribute to Indian culture. Through great food, vibrant performances and impeccable jewels, the evening brought together over 150 guests in a spirit of unity and celebration.
The Diwali celebration unfolded at Jiak Kim House, a restored 1920s warehouse nestled along the Singapore River. To match the spirit of the occasion, Cartier dressed the location’s timber trusses and preserved heritage interiors with bright marigold arrangements, delicate draping, and illuminated installations that gave Jiak Kim House a look of warm light and colour. Guests were greeted naturally by Cartier’s bellboys in their red velvet jackets, and ushered into the transformed venue. Two special guests graced the evening: His Highness Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh and his sister Princess Gauravi Kumari of Jaipur.
Cartier has a rich history with Indian culture. In the early 20th century, Jacques Cartier travelled to India for the first time and was met with rich colours and gemstones that would go on to inspire the maison’s creations. In 1925, the Parisian maison debuted Tutti Frutti jewellery, a signature style that is rooted in Indian influence. “Diwali is a beautiful occasion to celebrate these connections, particularly in a city as culturally diverse as Singapore,” said Cartier Southeast Asia & Oceania CEO Yanina Novitskaya.
Tracing Diwali’s symbolism, Cartier and Valiram staged performances with movement, music and illumination that brought the concept of light to life. Going from darkness to light, it represented the journey of traditions as it passes through generations, and the connections across cultures that endure. The renowned percussionist and tabla player Rodolphe Manoukian was invited to perform, and his rippling drumbeats brought the festivities to a high in a celebration to remember.
Throughout the evening, guests relished in a culinary lineup of four distinct perspectives. Chef Saurabh Udinia of Revolver, Chef Mano Thevar of Thevar, Chef Jeremy Gillon of Essence & Experience, and Chef Seow Tzi Qin of Jiak Kim House served up their takes on the bold flavours and diversity of Indian gastronomy. Food, art, culture and jewellery coming together for a moment of festive joy. “As we celebrate Diwali together for the first time in Singapore,” commented Valiram executive director Mukesh Valiram, “it is a beautiful reminder of what we value most—bringing people together, nurturing meaningful connections and creating memories that endure.”
