Diwali is no longer an Indian festival, its rather a global phenomena.
The festival of lights is an annual celebration of the return of Lord Rama from 14 years of exile, and his victory against the demon Ravana.
Diwali is a much awaited festival in India. its a time to get together with your family and loved ones. Its a time to shop till you drop. The markets in India are full of sweets, home decorations, flowers, rangoli colors, dry fruits, and of course lots of fashionable clothes and fire crackers to pick for the Diwali day.
My favourite item every year has been these lovely earthen lamps called ‘Diyas’. They are produced by the rural communities who are facing tough competition against the cheaper Chinese machine produced lamps. To be very honest, the handmade diyas may not be all of same size and finish, but their earthy smell brings the true spirit of Diwali. And what is best to support the local community and bring light to the families of the diya makers.
I remember my school days when we used to eagerly wait for the Diwali to get our new dresses, clean up the cobwebs and tidy our study rooms and then be rewarded in the evening with some special dinner, sweets and lighting up firecrackers.
More than the the markets and what we buy its the homecoming for many people like me who are working away from their home, that we look forward too. Though Diwali makes its presence even in the UK, there is nothing that beats the Diwali in India.
