With the festive season in full bloom, BBC Good Food India’s October issue is all about celebration. We’ve made playing host and planning a smashing party menu a cakewalk for you. Nothing beats a Middle East-themed party for an informal get-together, and food writer and blogger Kulsum Kunwa presents a knockout line-up of dishes – from roasted garlic labneh to baklava ice cream sandwich. From India, we explore the colourful cuisine of Rajasthan and bring you earthy treats from the kitchens of Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur. The lip-smacking pickles and the traditional fare are guaranteed to impress. Since Bengali food is the rage at this time of the year, we zero down on seven of the finest Bengali eateries in India for you to get your fix of luchi bhaja, kosha mangsho, rasgullas, and more. Hailing all the way from Barossa Valley in Australia, our top producer is Maggie Beer, the legendary woman behind the famous verjuice and her artisanal products. Don’t miss our inventive takes on the much-loved burgers! There’s more – home-style Nordic cuisine, Garima Arora’s (from Noma) masterclass of Danish pastry and a delicious tour of Kanpur. Grab this unmissable issue today!