Diwali Mubarak: When the house made room for everyone

Diwali, the festival of lights, holds a special place in the hearts of those who celebrate it. One writer recalls their earliest memories of the holiday, starting with the aroma of khoya browning in a pan, a scent that accompanied them from Delhi to Nagpur. As soon as the first diyas were lit, the house was filled with relatives, neighbors, friends, and colleagues who all came together to join in the celebrations.

Each person added their own touch to the evening - whether it was bringing patakas for fireworks, sharing stories and laughter, or simply being present to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Papa's colleagues, neighbors, and friends came to play cards, while the family's Brahmin cook, Panditji, made hundreds of samosas for the guests.

Kavita Aunty and Dr Chaudhry arrived with their son Prashant, adding to the diverse crowd that filled their home. As the evening progressed, the activities shifted from prayer to poetry, music, and even a bit of card-playing. The Ramayana was opened, and the aarti began, with everyone joining in regardless of their skill level. The writer recalls a poignant moment when their grandfather passed away and how Bhua's singing of Kabir brought a sense of peace and unity to the family.

Even after his death, the spirit of unity and warmth lingered in their home. Diwali has since traveled with the writer to America, where friends gathered in their home during the celebration. The spirit of Diwali remains the same - coming together to share food, laughter, and a sense of community, regardless of one's background or beliefs.