The rows of buoyant flames are what Diwali means to everyone. With a usual phrase hanging in, it is the 'victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance". New hopes are lighted on the day of lights. With happiness and chatter spreading out on all corners, people enjoy their festival with the air of freedom, festivity, and friendliness everywhere. ..
But do NRIs find the word exhilaration or happiness quite odd from the point where they are living right now? Yes is the answer ! For all those who have been brought up outside the current location, their memories travel to their childhood filled with diyas, carnivals, traditional puja and rangoli .. Even then, the traditions and rituals which had established a place in their hearts a long back would help them to overcome the void by celebrating it in the way they would love to celebrate it.
Diwali is an annual homecoming and bonding period for families. From cleaning their house and illuminating diyas to wearing the finest clothes, they find their share of happiness. Making their house a simple temple with thalis and different artistic rangolis and diyas, they invite people to take part in their happiness. In this way, they share their happiness and love with others. Feeding different attendees with different kinds of delicious foods including naans, chola masala, paneer makhan etc. lights another glow in the person who is conducting the homely festival. With different types of dishes surrounding them, the people also have a long list of favorite snacks and sweets which they would love to savour.
Assembling in the ground floor of the residence or in a community ground, the sparklers and firecrackers aren't missed out by anyone who considers this portion of the 'light festival' as their partial heartbeat. Each and every one of them takes part in bringing the festive spirit in them by sharing and lighting different types of crackers. With laughter and smiles, the day of lights is completed.
During this festive season, they try to cultivate different values in them. They try to forgive and forget the past mistakes and form new bonds with no boundaries of hatred. Also, they try to wake up early in the morning and start their new year with positive thoughts and determination.. As they fill their minds with positive quotes, they find a refreshed aura shining out to the people surrounding them. When the rows of light are arranged outside to spread life, people also illuminate their inner self to cultivate and enjoy perfect bliss.
When the heart has considerably hardened, only a continuous celebration of Diwali can rekindle the urgent need of turning away from the ruinous path of hatred.' - Anonymous