Your Diwali Stories

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of Diwali?
The first things that come to mind are the sounds and sights of Diwali. I think of the crackle and colour of fireworks lighting up the night sky, the warmth of being with family, and the powerful story of Lord Ram's return, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.

Beyond the lights and festivities, what does Diwali mean to you personally?
Beyond the beautiful lights and lively celebrations, Diwali for me is a time for gratitude and reflection. It’s about being truly present with my loved ones, taking a moment to thank God for all the blessings in our lives, and quietly remembering those who are no longer with us. It's a reminder that even in the brightest moments, we carry the memories of those who shaped our journey

What are some of your favourite family traditions during the Diwali celebrations?
My favourite family traditions centre around slowing down and sharing moments. We always make a point of going to the temple together, where the air is filled with beautiful prayers and the scent of incense. The best part, though, is eating together as a family. There are no schedules or time constraints—just endless conversation, laughter, and delicious food shared around a table piled high with treats

How do you spread the joy and light of Diwali with your friends and community?
We spread the joy of Diwali by connecting with our loved ones, whether through FaceTime and messages or, even better, by gathering together at community events. Here in Leicester, we're lucky to have the famous Golden Mile, where the entire street is closed to traffic for a few hours. It’s a truly magical experience to walk among thousands of people, all sharing hugs, greetings, and good wishes for the new year. That feeling of shared joy and connection is what makes our community so special during this festival.

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of Diwali?
When I think of Diwali, I picture a city glowing with light and happiness. Growing up in Mumbai with my Rajasthani roots, I remember homes and streets shimmering with candles and lamps, with vibrant rangoli designs brightening every doorstep.Family and friends gather before and after Diwali with shared laughter & preparations, making it a 5 day celebration rather than a one day celebration.

And of course, the delicious food and house parties are a perfect finishing touch.

💡 This tradition goes back to the ancient story of Lord Rama’s return from exile, when people lit rows of lamps to welcome him home. It marked the victory of good over evil — a message that still resonates today.

Beyond the lights and festivities, what does Diwali mean to you personally?
Diwali is about renewal. I strongly feel that it encourages us to clear out negativity, reflect on the past year, and embrace new beginnings with kindness, gratitude, and positivity. Diwali means more like a sense of community, cohesiveness and sharing this beautiful tradition with the world.

What are some of your favourite family traditions during the Diwali celebrations?
Out of all the many traditions on Diwali, my favourite is preparing the house by decorating it with fresh flowers, Rangoli, lighting and cleaning our houses, preparing sweets along with family members before Diwali, paying a visit to each other's houses, getting blessings from elders, sharing food with friends and workplace colleagues. Also, sharing these traditions with people who know less about Diwali excites me.

How do you spread the joy and light of Diwali with your friends and community?
I celebrate by hosting open houses, Diwali parties, sharing food, and volunteering in the community. In workplaces, I like to take in sweets, or simply share the significance of the festival. Diwali is not just a celebration, for me it's more of spreading light not just through lamps, but through acts of kindness and inclusion.

✨ Diwali is an opportunity to celebrate diversity, encourage reflection, and share in the universal message that light, hope, and goodness multiply when shared.

The first thing that comes to mind
The warm glow of diyas (lamps) lighting up homes and streets, it feels like the entire world is wrapped in a golden embrace.

Beyond the lights and festivities
For me, Diwali is about renewal, letting go of old negativity, welcoming fresh beginnings and deepening gratitude for family, faith and life’s blessings. It’s also a reminder that light, no matter how small, can overcome darkness.

Favourite family traditions
Decorating the house with rangoli at the entrance.

Lighting diyas together and making a wish as the first one is lit.

Sharing homemade sweets (and sneaking a few before dinner).

A family prayer in the evening, where everyone is together no matter how busy life gets.

And as kids, cheekily throwing fireworks near the neighbours' house (with lots of laughter and mischief, though we’d never get away with it now!).

Spreading joy and light
I try to share it through small gestures: giving sweets to neighbours, sending heartfelt wishes to friends, donating to those in need and sharing time with people who may feel alone during the festival. Even just carrying that sense of positivity and kindness into conversations makes Diwali’s spirit ripple outward.