‘Diwali’- the festival of lights. A festival so bright and beautiful. As per Hindu mythology, it’s a festival celebrating the return of Lord Rama after defeating Ravana during his forest exile. There are symbolism for celebrating this Hindu festival- the good shall ultimately rule; there will be light that will vanquish darkness. The celebrations are always bright and beautiful and it was extremely special during my childhood days.
We had diwali holidays to look forward to during my school days. Atleast, a week off was scheduled. There was a jubilant festive spirit all around our place. Kids of various ages indulged in festive activities, the predominant one being fireworks. In my house I had to settle with the smallest and cutest looking fireworks because I was supposedly a ‘child’ and children are reckless. There was adult supervision all the time. After bursting my share of ‘sparkles’ and ‘flower pots’, I would hang in my neighbour friend’s house where I could burst crackers. It was thrilling like I was on a mission to send a rocket to space. (No, I didn’t get to burst one of those ‘rocket’ fireworks).
I directly landed on describing fireworks before detailing the diwali preparations that lead to fireworks. There was a whole Diwali routine that was followed on the main day of Diwali (it usually runs for 3 to 5 days). There was a customary oil bath. You would douse yourself with oil and have a hot water bath (extremely relaxing). We would clean up small earthen lamps called ‘diyas’ and keep them ready for lighting in the evening. (The lamps are neatly packed in boxes and stored in a place that is revisited once a year). The lit diyas would adorn the outsides of the house like an illuminated outline that sets your house apart. We would also make delicious sweets and savouries…hot and fresh.
As I got older, the elaborate routine reduced to a few basic steps. Diyas are what defines a diwali for me today (and the oil baths). I translate this minimal ritual to its original significance. The light from diyas translates to brightness that destroys all despair and sadness.A hope for a bright future of good health and prosperity to you and your loved ones. That’s what diwali is for me. Forever special. Forever beautiful…
Happy Diwali!
