Diwali – “the Festival of Lights” – dates back thousands of years and is celebrated by Hindu, Jain, Sikh and even some Buddhist communities around the world. Though I was not raised in any of these faiths, I too grew up celebrating Diwali alongside Eid, Holi, Raksha Bandhan, Bihu – and many more holidays from all across India. This is the beauty of the India I was raised in.
My earliest childhood memories of Diwali are tables full of sparklers, platters piled high with sweets, a night sky lit with fireworks. We would wear our festive best shalwar-kameez to our friends’ homes – carefully stepping over their rangoli, hiding when a loud firecracker went off, and ending the evening nestled by our parents while my mother’s beautiful singing voice danced in the night.
In this book, I wanted to capture the joy of the Diwali I grew up with — the lights, the magic, the legendary tale of good triumphing over evil. My hope is that your Diwali celebrations include all of these, as well as open arms to your neighbors and friends from all faiths and walks of life who can experience this beautiful festival alongside you.
From my two children, my husband and from me – wishing you love and light on all of your days,
Sana