Sunday Edition: Preeta Nair on Diwali at Trishna

This week in our Sunday Edition, we sit down with Preeta Nair, General Manager of Trishna, an Indian Michelin-starred restaurant that has been at the heart of London’s hospitality scene for 16 years.

During our conversation, Preeta shares how her role has evolved, the rituals that keep her grounded, and the significance of Diwali — a festival rooted in light, community, and tradition. From the morning rituals she treasures, to the way food and togetherness shape the celebrations at Trishna, her reflections illuminate the importance of connection, gratitude, and wellbeing.

At the heart of our partnership with Trishna this autumn, we are delighted to mark the celebration of Diwali with a special collaboration: the Diwali Reed Diffuser. Blending notes of cardamom, tonka bean, and black pepper, it evokes festive memories of spice, conviviality, and gathering. Launching 13th October, exclusively at anatomē.co

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You have been at the heart of hospitality for over twelve years. How has your role evolved during this time, and what continues to inspire you in leading Trishna?

Over the past twelve years, my role in hospitality has evolved from being very hands-on with daily operations to focusing more on leadership, strategy, and developing teams. Early in my career, I was deeply involved in service and guest experience, which gave me a solid foundation in understanding both customer expectations and operational challenges. As I’ve grown, my responsibilities have shifted toward managing people, driving performance, and ensuring financial sustainability, while keeping the guest experience at the heart of everything we do.

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In your experience, how has the culture at Trishna grown and shifted over the years, and what elements have remained timeless at its core?

Over the years, Trishna’s culture has evolved to become more innovative and collaborative, while our core values — authentic hospitality, a neighbourhood feel, quality, and passion for guest experience — have remained timeless.

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Could you share what Diwali represents and why it holds such cultural and personal significance?

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Culturally, it’s about hope and community, and for me personally it is about being with my family and friends and reconnecting with tradition.

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Which rituals or traditions during Diwali are most meaningful to you, and how do you bring them into your celebrations?

For me, visiting the temple in the morning and lighting diyas is the most meaningful ritual — it symbolizes positivity and new beginnings. I also value sharing food with family and friends, which brings everyone together. In my celebrations, I try to combine these traditions with creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects both heritage and togetherness, especially as Malaysia is a multi-racial country.

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Food is such a central part of Diwali. How does Trishna reflect this spirit through its menus and guest experiences?

Food is at the heart of Diwali, symbolising abundance, generosity, and celebration. At Trishna, we reflect this spirit by creating menus that showcase festive flavours, seasonal ingredients, and dishes meant for sharing. It’s not just about the food itself, but the experience — welcoming guests with warmth, encouraging togetherness at the table, and adding touches like gifting Indian Mittai (sweets) that make the celebration feel special and memorable.

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Alongside our exclusive collaboration, how is Diwali celebrated within the restaurant, and what makes the occasion at Trishna distinct from celebrating at home?

At Trishna, we celebrate Diwali by bringing the festive spirit into the restaurant through vibrant menus, warm hospitality, and a celebratory atmosphere. While Diwali at home is intimate and rooted in family traditions, dining with us offers a unique experience — guests can enjoy refined festive dishes, curated pairings, and the joy of sharing the celebration in a lively, communal setting.

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Is there a particular Diwali memory or tradition that continues to shape how you experience the festival today?

That sense of togetherness, warmth, and reflection continues to shape how I experience Diwali today, reminding me of the importance of celebration, gratitude, and connection with loved ones. Celebrating Diwali with my colleagues and the community has been a joy all these years at Trishna.

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Recovery and sleep are essential pillars at anatomē. How do you create space for your own wellbeing amidst the pace of restaurant life?

In the busy world of restaurants, I make sure to prioritise rest and self-care. Even small breaks, good sleep, and mindful moments help me stay energised and lead my team effectively.

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Has your relationship with sleep and unwinding evolved or shifted over the course of your career?

Absolutely — early in my career, I often sacrificed sleep to keep up with the pace, thinking it was part of the job. Over time, I’ve learned that prioritising rest and finding ways to unwind isn’t a luxury — it’s essential. Taking care of my own wellbeing allows me to stay focused, make better decisions, and lead my team more effectively.

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Finally, what does wellness mean to you at this point in your life — both as a leader in hospitality and in your personal life?

Wellness means balance — being at my best for my team, my guests, and my own life.

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anatomē x Trishna DIWALI REED DIFFUSER 

Cardamom, Tonka Bean and Black Pepper - Available on anatome.co on 13th October.