The festive season brings an air of excitement and celebration, with markets bustling with people buying new things for Dhanteras, sweets and gifts for Diwali, and everything from home décor to fresh outfits. However, along with the festive joy comes a wave of expenses that can easily throw your finances off track. From decorative items and sweets to gifts and home cleaning, costs can quickly pile up. Many people spend freely, thinking festivals come only once a year, but this mindset often leads to overspending and financial stress. Planning your budget in advance is the best way to enjoy the season without regrets.
Plan Your Festival Budget
Begin by deciding how much you want to spend for the entire festive season. Make sure to include shopping, gifts, travel, and food in your budget. A 50-30-20 spending rule can help: allocate 50% to essential items like gifts, sweets, and puja materials, 30% to clothing and decorations, and save 20% for unforeseen expenses. Set clear limits—once your budget is fixed, avoid exceeding it.
Focus on Essential Purchases
Markets are full of tempting deals and attractive products, but stick to what you actually need. Buy clothes, gifts, and home essentials sensibly. Get creative and reuse old decorative items to give your home a fresh festive look without spending much. Avoid unnecessary purchases made just to impress others.
Look Out for Discounts and Offers
Festive sales and discount campaigns—both online and offline—are a great way to save money. Platforms often announce “Big Sale” or “Mega Discount” events, so compare prices across different stores before buying. Check nearby shops too; sometimes local offers are better. Make a list and plan your purchases to avoid impulse buys. Look for “buy one, get one free” offers or cashback deals to maximize savings.
Make Sweets at Home
Adulteration in festive sweets is a common issue, and store-bought delicacies can be quite expensive. Instead of spending ₹1000 on readymade sweets like cashew katli, buy fresh ingredients and make them at home. Homemade sweets are not only pocket-friendly but also healthier and safer for your family.
