Mahjong Replaces Cards as the New Diwali Party Craze in Delhi

In the lead-up to Diwali 2025, mahjong has become the latest craze to sweep through Delhi's festive celebrations, replacing the traditional card game culture. At a cafe in Defence Colony, women adorned in their Diwali finery are seen swapping decks of cards for sets of mahjong tiles, playing the game for charity.

This trend is not limited to a single event; mahjong has fast become a new fixture at Diwali parties across the city. "In Delhi, taash party culture has always been big. Mahjong is slowly entering the space. Women are especially drawn to it - you see it at daytime kitty parties and now, at Diwali parties," says Avika Jain, who is leading The Mahjong Network's Delhi Chapter.

The game's thrilling and social vibe, as well as the opportunity to include money, have made it a hit among Delhi's elite. "Just like teen patti, mahjong also gives the opportunity to include money. The game, involving drawing and discarding of tiles, can be played with money, and they can be just as competitive," adds Ahana Sethi, Jain's co-lead.

This festive season, mahjong has also gotten a luxurious upgrade, with diamond-studded sets becoming popular. "Like Diwali, mahjong brings people together. Each set features exquisite detailing, with hand-engraved and painted tiles, and natural diamonds embedded in the flower tiles," shares Ankita Sonawal, brand head of a jewelry label.

As Diwali 2025 approaches, mahjong is poised to continue its rise as the new must-have activity for Delhi's elite, offering a thrilling and social alternative to the traditional card game culture.