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You could book a flight to India. Or, you could head to Greyville.
The India Diwali Expo has brought a colourful slice of Indian culture to Durban, with vendors travelling from across India to showcase fashion, food, jewellery, footwear, homeware and more. It runs until 20 September, so there’s still time to experience it.
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Celebrating Indian heritage
First held in 2002, the expo was established to give South Africans an opportunity to experience Indian culture without travelling thousands of kilometres.
More than 60 companies from India have participated over the years, with vendors coming from Kashmir, Punjab, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Delhi.
And if you’ve ever watched a Bollywood film and wondered where you could get that outfit, this is your chance.
One of the expo’s biggest draws is its fashion offering. According to organiser Nadeem Bhai, vendors bring the latest styles from India, including outfits inspired by those seen in Bollywood films.
The expo has also become particularly popular with brides-to-be, with Bhai noting that bridal fashion is one of its biggest sellers.
But this isn’t simply a shopping trip. Over the past two decades, the expo has also become a place where people connect and reconnect with friends.
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Come hungry and enjoy entertainment
The cultural experience extends to the food, too.
The India Diwali Expo was among the first to introduce the now-popular pani puri to South Africa, along with pav bhaji, the much-loved Mumbai street food. Vendors and chefs travel from India to bring these flavours to Durban.
So yes, come for the lehengas and jewellery. Stay for the snacks.
While the expo brings vendors and chefs from India, its entertainment programme also puts the spotlight on South African Indian talent.
The organisers give preference to local singers and dancers for live shows, while also exploring opportunities to feature Indian talent.
As Bhai puts it: “We’re bringing a little bit of India to South Africa so the people who cannot visit India can feel India here.”
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What you need to know
- Dates: Friday, 28 August – Sunday, 20 September 2026
- Time: 10 am–9 pm
- Location: Hollywoodbets Greyville Race Course
- Entrance: Infield Gate 16
- What to expect: Indian fashion, jewellery, footwear, food, homeware and more
- More information: @thegreatindianshoppingexpos
The expo has been running since August, but you still have some time. Don’t miss out on your last chance to get the best of India, right in Durban.
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