LUX* South Ari Atoll collaborates with celebrity chef Avinash Martins for Diwali

4 mins read
Images courtesy of LUX* South Ari Atoll

At LUX* South Ari Atoll, Diwali will be marked with an extraordinary celebration, followed by a week of culinary experiences presented by top Indian celebrity chef Avinash Martins.

On the day of Diwali, guests can start the morning with sun salutations at the resort’s Yoga Grove followed by the signature LUX* Tree of Wishes ceremony. It is believed that writing a wish on a ribbon and tying it to an ancient banyan tree, can make one’s dream come true. Here, guests also have the chance to contribute to a local charity. Creative minds will enjoy the rangoli competition, open for all.

Food is key to celebration and Diwali is no exception. Recently named as the ‘Leading Food & Beverage Resort’ by South Asian Travel Awards, LUX* South Ari Atoll features eight restaurants that serve international cuisine. 

Highlights of the Diwali celebration includes an Indian street food workshop and a ‘Maharaja Night’ Dinner, as well as exclusive dining experiences hosted by Chef Martins from 16 to 20 November.

Senses, the resort’s open-air restaurant will host exclusive lunch and dinner culinary experiences available for pre-booking. Chef Martins will present a curated Maldivian-Indian fusion menu, prepared with a Goan twist. The unique 5-course menu will be paired with his recommended beverages. 

For a culinary voyage, Chef Avinash will host one-of-a-kind Masterchef class set in the island’s Amaa’s Kitchen. Using the fresh greens from the herb garden, guests will learn the secrets behind rich and flavourful cuisine of India and the Maldives. The experience will conclude with a certification ceremony for participants.

Voted as one of the India’s Top Chefs 2023 by Culinary Culture and Sustainable Chef of The Year at Travel + Leisure India Delicious Dining Awards, Chef Martins is known for his unconventional approach to fine dining. Hailing from from Goa, he will bring his passion for slow food, and sustainable farm-to-table cuisine. He infuses local flavours into contemporary cooking while highlighting traditions of his homeland with the use of fresh, sustainably-sourced ingredients. His restaurant, Cavatina by Avinash Martins, recently ranked number 12 on Condé Nast Traveller India’s Top Restaurant Awards 2023.

“Diwali is a time when families and friends come together to celebrate the triumph of goodness, while lamps are lit, and presents are exchanged. A pampering spa experience at the LUX* ME Spa would make a great Diwali gift for loved ones. Guests can reserve and immerse in the resort’s curated Extraordinary Experiences: from yoga and sound healing onboard a traditional dhoni to jet ski safari adventures,” the resort said.

“LUX* South Ari Atoll aims to delight its guests with new experiences, to make every holiday truly memorable. Kids will love the build-your-own menu at all restaurants, and vegan lovers will be delighted with the healthful LUX* Keen On Green concept. The Maldivian Night buffet and the Amaa’s Kitchen experience showcase intriguing local flavours and island hospitality seasoned with entertainment.”

Click here to indulge in Extraordinary Experiences or book a stay with hosted dining experiences by Chef Avinash Martins at LUX* South Ari Atoll.