• What does Diwali symbolize for you?
Diwali is one of my favorite times of the year – from the abundance of lights to the all-round positive energy to the most memorable moments spent with loved ones, it truly is a fun filled celebration of joy, laughter, love and most importantly unity which represents the depth and richness of our Indian culture.
• For someone who is just learning about the festival, what’s the most important thing to know?
The festival represents a ray of new beginnings, light over darkness and good over evil. Our homes are lit up with candles, oil lamps and lanterns to really ‘light’ up the mood of the festivities over the course of 5 days. It brings not only hope and positivity within our culture but reminds us to express gratitude for all things fortunate such as life, family, health, success and aspirations. It is our time and opportunity to recognize, reflect, reconnect and rebuild for the future.
• How do you and your family celebrate Diwali?
Diwali always feels like an early Christmas in our household, we would always host the most amazing parties for close family and friends, my mum would make a banquet of food from savory to sweet dishes and treats, of course there was always leftovers for the following days to feast on but the downside was packing on all those extra calories. We decorate the house with lots of candles and lanterns, colorful decorations oh and not to forget the amazing artwork we call ‘Rangoli’ to get in touch with our creative side.
One tradition is for the house to be cleaned, so really an excuse for a ‘spring clean’ and my favorite tradition is that we must wear new clothes, who would say no to a pre-shopping spree right – I never did! We would start the evening with prayers and blessings to welcome Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth, fortune and prosperity into our homes and then followed by family and friends who bring us even more food and gifts. We celebrate, laugh a lot, eat a lot more, exchange gifts and then the best part would be the firework display to finish of the wonderful night, of course one firework would always seem to head a different direction other than the sky – whoops. Overall, it has been some of the best moments and memories of my life, and it is such a shame that this year will be somewhat a different experience due to the Covid-19 restrictions. Thank god for the virtual options right!
• Do you have a favorite recipe, tradition or playlist that you like to incorporate during this time?
I have a sweet tooth so here are some of my favourite Diwali sweets, if you’re interested, Pinterest has some great recipes available for these! Enjoy.
- Chocolate Barfi
- Jalebi
- Galub Jamun
Diwali for me most importantly is about making memories and spending time with family and for that I am grateful every year. Therefore, I wish you and your families around the globe a very special, Covid-friendly and fabulous Diwali – Its ‘Time to Celebrate.’
Best Wishes
Rashmi
Deckers Careers 