Manas Malhotra
Diwali shopping, gifts and celebrations can increase your expenses quickly. Planning your spending in advance can help you enjoy the festivities without putting pressure on your finances.
Decide how much you can afford to spend on Diwali without affecting your regular expenses. Divide your budget between clothes, gifts, food and decorations.
List the items you need before shopping. A clear list will help you focus on planned purchases, avoid unnecessary additions, and keep festive spending under control.
Check prices across stores and online platforms before making purchases. Compare discounts carefully, as a festive offer may not always provide the lowest final price.
Festive sales can encourage unplanned spending. Before buying something, consider whether you need it and whether it fits your budget, rather than buying for discounts alone.
Set a separate limit for gifts and focus on thoughtful options that fit your spending plan. You can celebrate relationships without choosing expensive presents.
Avoid using credit cards or instalment plans for purchases you cannot comfortably repay. Check the total cost and future payments before committing to festive spending.
Reserve a small part of your budget for unexpected guests, extra food, or travel. Any money left over can go towards savings after the celebrations.