Celebrating Diwali: Insights from Celebrities on Traditions and Memories

The Spirit of Diwali: A Festival of Light and Togetherness

Diwali, known as the festival of lights, transcends mere decorations, sweets, and fireworks; it embodies a celebration of joy, family bonds, and cultural heritage. This year, we reached out to several well-known actors to share their Diwali experiences, reflecting on how their childhood memories influence their current celebrations and the deeper significance of the festival. From environmentally friendly practices to honoring traditional customs, each narrative showcases a distinct approach to keeping the spirit of Diwali alive—both in a literal and symbolic sense.

Childhood Memories: Jigna Vora

Diwali has always filled me with excitement. As a child, it revolved around cleaning the house, performing puja, lighting diyas, enjoying sweets, and ending the night with fireworks. However, as I matured, I discovered that the festival carries a profound meaning beyond just lights; it symbolizes the importance of maintaining our inner brightness, both literally and metaphorically.

Social Celebrations: Hansa Singh

In Mumbai, Diwali has evolved into a more communal celebration. I conduct my puja and rituals at home, connect with family after Lakshmi Puja, and then join friends for festive parties. While I can't pinpoint a single cherished childhood memory, I fondly recall lighting crackers late into the night with my cousins, often getting scolded by the elders! We tend to miss those moments that are now behind us, don’t we?

Joyful Chaos: Ssudeep Sahir

I have countless delightful Diwali memories from my childhood, making it tough to choose just one. I vividly remember the joyful chaos before dusk—hurrying to light crackers and diyas with my father and sisters, savoring the delicious meals prepared by my mother, and eagerly awaiting the Diwali sweets. Assisting my sisters with rangoli, bursting crackers (sometimes even in letterboxes!) with friends, and facing the consequences the next day—these memories still bring a smile to my face. Diwali has always been synonymous with joy and laughter.

Harvest Celebrations: Rubina Dilaik

Back in Himachal Pradesh, Diwali marks the harvest season, and the celebrations there are quite unique. The scent of pine fills the air as homes are adorned with pine leaves and earthen lamps. Kitchens buzz with the preparation of treats like sidu, mittha, and bathu. Villages come alive with deity processions, folk music, and laughter echoing through the hills. As we celebrate the festival of lights, I wish for peace, joy, and serenity to touch everyone’s lives.

A Time for Reflection: Deepika Singh

For me, Diwali represents more than just the festival of lights; it’s an opportunity to reflect and cleanse—not only our homes but also our minds and hearts. This involves removing energy blockages, letting go of what no longer serves us, and making room for positivity and abundance.

Family Traditions: Niharika Chouksey

I begin the day by seeking my parents’ blessings, donning new clothes, and diving into the delicious food, which inevitably derails my diet plans. I enjoy adorning the house with fairy lights and diyas, and I spend the evening bursting a few crackers with family and friends. This festival fills my heart with warmth and excitement.

Festive Joy: Mohak Matkar

I cherish the energy, the lights, and the sense of unity that Diwali fosters. My favorite aspects of the festival include decorating the house with diyas and rangoli, dressing in traditional attire, and, of course, indulging in all the delightful sweets!