From Diwali to Chhath Puja: How food and festivals bring India together

November brings a distinctive aroma of marigolds and a chill in the air as India prepares for the weekend plans to reunite with loved ones. Having grown up in Delhi, the author has observed the city's evolution through the years, even as the festive spirit remains intact. The month of November is an opportunity to revisit the many festive memories that have shaped their understanding of India. From Lohri in January to Christmas in December, hardly a month goes by without a reason to celebrate.

In March, Holi and Eid herald the changing seasons, with Iftaar gatherings becoming opportunities to share meals and colors of Holi spilling into homes and neighborhoods. By October, the festive calendar accelerates, with Goddess Durga's arrival marking the beginning of Navratri and Durga Puja celebrations. Soon after comes Diwali, the festival of lights, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

Weekends are filled with visits to pujas, family gatherings, and festive shopping, while office schedules are negotiated with familiar reminders to avoid requesting too many days off.

What makes these celebrations truly special is the communal camaraderie that accompanies them. At workplaces, people from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds unite, dress in coordinated outfits, exchange sweets, and participate in festivities. Diwali becomes a time to host friends, share favorite sweets, and enjoy meals together. As the festivities draw to a close, December arrives with Christmas, bringing a cozy end to the year.