5 Reasons why Diwali is more than just sweets

I always feel Diwali is more than just sweets… The monsoons have finally bid farewell, and I love the clear skies and calm days. Though the daytime heat of October has begun to rise, the nights in Sindhudurg remain pleasantly cool. How’s the weather in your part of the world right now? The festive season has already kicked off with Dussehra, and I’m looking forward to the magic of Diwali, a festival that holds more than just sweet treats and fond memories.

By now, everyone knows that I’m Punekar, settled on the coasts of Konkan. I belong to a hustler family. I’ve witnessed my parents tirelessly dedicate themselves to their jobs, day in and day out. My mother serves in the state government, while my father works for the central government. Both hail from different defense forces but are employed in clerical roles.

As a family, my younger sister and I primarily spent time with our parents in the evenings or during festive occasions. Fortunately, we had the support of my maternal grandmother, two uncles, and an aunt, who often cared for us in our parents’ absence. My mother effortlessly juggled her responsibilities during my early years, especially in the afternoons. This is the reason why festivals hold a special place in my heart.

5 Reasons why Diwali is more than just sweets

It is the celebration of light and hope.
Diwali is the time to reconnect with loved ones and strengthen family bonds.
It’s a time to reflect on one’s actions, seek forgiveness, and strive for a better future.
It is a vibrant celebration of Indian culture.
Diwali is a season of giving, sharing, and gratitude.

Our celebrations in Pune

I’m sure everyone has their fondest memories of festivals. All of us celebrate them with utmost joy. The best part about Diwali is we all spend quality time together. It feels so different and amazing to see the preparations. Hanging the Akash kandil (lantern), classic warm or colorful lights, preparing Diwali faral with mom, the first day of Diwali, and that Abhyangasnan (oil bath and ubtan application). I also recollect the good old days when we stayed in the police quarters and Mom used to get red soil to make the fort (killa).

My frequent trips with Dad to pick rangoli borders, akash kandil, lights, and some extra sweets fresh from the finest sweet shops. It was like a different phase altogether. I remember my youngest uncle who came over to put the lights with us. It all feels like a dream to be together with everyone during the brightest time of the year.

Our Diwali breakfast is always fixed – Goad Pohe, Sweet Potato, Faral, Tea. Pohe is Red Pohe locally available in Sindhudurg. These are mixed with jaggery and grated coconut.

Diwali is more than just sweets…

We cherish the time with our cousins and relatives during this time of the year. Bhaubhij celebrations start with meeting Atya (dad’s sister), my maasi (aunt) and her kids, my two mama (uncle), and their kids. We look forward to spending quality time with each other yearly during Diwali. We spend the whole day with relatives and extended family and end our day. The following day is as usual the same routine work and everyone gets busy with work. I guess now you can understand too that Diwali is more than just Sweets.

I always look forward to celebrating festivals with immense joy and enthusiasm. These moments are treasured memories that will last a lifetime. I’m sure those with busy work schedules or working parents can relate. Every festival serves as a powerful recharge, to help me for the months ahead. I feel truly grateful for my life and the people in it. I strive to instill these precious values in my little one, and she shares my enthusiasm for celebrating different festivals. She’s like a mini-me, though she takes after her father physically. I suppose every daughter does!

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