Food Delivery Orders Surge Across India as Swiggy, Magicpin Report Festive Spike

As India immerses itself in the vibrant festivities of Diwali on October 20, 2025, food delivery giants Swiggy and magicpin are witnessing a remarkable spike in orders, transforming culinary indulgences into a cornerstone of the celebrations. With families gathering for traditional sweets, thalis, and lavish meals, platforms report doubled volumes compared to last year, driven by a blend of nostalgia and convenience.

Sidharth Bhakoo, Chief Business Officer of Swiggy's Food Marketplace, revealed expectations to double previous festive figures, highlighting how food delivery has evolved into "the heart of how India celebrates together". This surge underscores the sector's resilience, with the online food delivery market projected to reach $10 billion by 2026, per industry estimates, fuelled by urban convenience and post-pandemic habits.

Leading the charge are metros like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, where order volumes have soared, but emerging cities such as Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, and Vadodara are matching the pace with enthusiastic participation. Desserts dominate the cravings, with choco lava cakes emerging as the top pick across urban centres, blending Western indulgence with festive joy.

Kolkata, true to its culinary heritage, remains steadfast in its affection for biryani, a staple that has transcended seasons. Bhakoo noted this regional flavour, saying the data paints a picture of unified indulgence amid diversity. The trend aligns with broader patterns: during Navratri, vegetarian and thali orders on magicpin jumped nearly 40% in active markets, reflecting temporary shifts toward satvik diets. Post-Dussehra, preferences normalised, with non-vegetarian options rebounding strongly as the nation transitions into Diwali's full swing.

Magicpin, India's third-largest platform, echoed the excitement, with CEO and co-founder Anshoo Sharma anticipating even higher peaks as Diwali draws near. The company observed a 2.5-fold increase in bulk and party food deliveries following Navratri, catering to group feasts and corporate gifting. By the second week of October, orders spiked 30% on October 10 alone compared to baseline days, signalling sustained momentum.

This festive frenzy not only boosts revenues—Swiggy reported a 25% year-on-year growth in Q2 2025—but also highlights evolving consumer behaviour. Younger demographics, aged 18-34, account for 60% of orders, often opting for fusion items like peri-peri fries alongside classics such as paneer tikka. Platforms have ramped up logistics, deploying extra riders and eco-friendly packaging to handle the deluge, while promotions like buy-one-get-one deals amplify the buzz.

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The boom extends beyond immediate sales, fostering partnerships with local eateries and artisanal sweet makers, injecting vitality into small businesses strained by inflation. However, challenges persist, including supply chain pressures from rising ingredient costs and rider welfare amid extended hours. As fireworks light up the skies and homes glow with diyas, this edible extravaganza symbolises prosperity and togetherness, with executives like Sharma emphasising sustainable growth. "India's festive spirit is insatiable, and we're here to deliver every bite," Sharma quipped.

With over 500 million potential users, the sector's trajectory promises a flavourful future, blending tradition with tech to keep the celebrations calorie-rich and connected.

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