Deepavali joy amid fading estate life
BENTONG: For much of the year, the oil palm plantation in Jalan Karak-Manchis is a quiet place, its ageing community going about life far from the bustle of town.
Bentong's oil palm plantation comes alive each Deepavali, transforming the once-silent community into a hub of festivities. The oil-palm workers, now aged 55 and 49, eagerly anticipate this occasion to reunite with their five children, aged between 21 and 28, all of whom have left the estate for work outside Pahang. For Gopal, a 55-year-old resident, the essence of Deepavali lies not in the vibrant celebrations but in the joy of having his family under one roof again.
The plantation, which once housed over 150 Indian families, now only has around 20, a stark contrast to its heyday. Gopal nostalgically recalls the communal fun and camaraderie when the estate teemed with life, but today, most younger generations have moved away, seeking new opportunities elsewhere. Upon arrival, the estate resonates with the sounds of festive music, decorated homes, and the crackle of fireworks.
The community gathers at the plantation temple for prayers, adorned in traditional attire, and exchanges warm greetings. While many now opt for catered meals instead of spending days preparing special dishes, the spirit of Deepavali remains alive. Gopal, however, faces the reality of his own impending departure as retirement looms after five years.
Despite this, he plans to return for the temple festival, cherishing the memories of his childhood on the estate.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
