India, Oct. 17 -- Matcha mania continues as cafes put a festive spin on the trend with Diwali-inspired flavours this season Matcha meets kulfi in a nostalgic twist that blends the caramelised sweetness of malai kulfi with matcha's bold flavour. "We wanted an Indian twist that would appeal to a wider audience," says Annie Bafna, founder of Noa by the Nutcracker. With Diwali around the corner, the combo offers a journey from nostalgia to modern flavour. Driven by social media and Gen Z, matcha is now piquing the curiosity of even 30-50-year-olds. Diwali isn't complete without motichoor ladoos - and now, they've met their match in matcha. Tokyo Matcha Bar's co-founder Meher Kohli says, "We wanted to bring festive sparkle to the cafe with a drink that blends Indian tradition and Japanese culture." Their Motichoor Matcha layers desi ghee ladoo, milk, ice, vegan cold foam and a ladoo. The Gulab Jamun matcha at Spill the Tea, hits you first and then the matcha cuts through with its earthy freshness says Ryan Soares, founder. For a feel-good festive indulgence, Cafe Delhi Heights is serving fruit matchas that blend wellness with flavour and celebration. Chef Ashish Singh, culinary director, says, "From a drink that pairs matcha with the richness of fresh mango puree, to blending it with coconut water the flavours evoke tropical, familiar notes of Indian celebrations. A blend of matcha and strawberry puree perfectly captures the spirit of Diwali. Much like the festival itself, it's bright, joyful, and full of contrast where the earthy depth of matcha meets the sweetness and vibrance of strawberry. The drink's lush pink-green hues mirror the colours of celebration, while its flavour profile balances calm and indulgence, a reflection of how we celebrate togetherness and lightness during the festive season. It's our playful take on Diwali in a cup refreshing, cheerful, and delightfully unmatched." The festive Iced Pistachio Matcha highlights nutty, aromatic notes. "It blends innovation with nostalgia to capture Diwali's spirit of flavour, comfort, and togetherness," says Rajat Luthra of Third Wave. This drink fuses Indian tradition with modern cafe craft, adding indulgence to the season....