Celebrating Diwali in America
Last week just marked Diwali and New Years of 2024! Usually Diwali is a time to celebrate with vibrant ethnic wear, family and friends. Diwali represents a celebration of love, light, family and joy that has roots in Diwali.
The Countdown Begins
I grew up in a small town in the United States but we still celebrate all the Indian holidays with the same amount of excitement as I imagine it is in India. The weeks coming up to Diwali are spent cleaning and decorating our home. This year was a bit different especially with my baby being born and my husband having to go back home for a family emergency. There is a lot of planning that also goes on in the weeks before. In America, it is hard to always find our favorite dishes that we would like to enjoy on Diwali (i.e halwa, ladoo, barfi,samosa, etc.) In major cities, you can find these dishes at restaurants and south asian grocery stores but I grew up in a small town in the mountains and we definitely did not have those luxuries.
Decorations
The best part of Diwali in my opinion is making the rangoli outside the door. A Rangoli is a beautiful design that we make using powders, lamps, and flowers to welcome guests. You will notice many Indian families stringing up lights around their mantle, staircase and porch to bring in the holiday as well. This year Diwali landed on Halloween. I saw some very unique decorations around the area with a mix of Diwali and Halloween calling it Diwaloween.
Temple and Community Celebrations
Where I currently live, there are multiple temples that hold Diwali celebrations on days around Diwali that are filled with dance performances, food stalls, music and art. The temples also have cultural programs that outline the spiritual meaning of this holiday and how lighting diyas symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Attempting to keep my baby away from the dangers of contagious illness at this time, my family and I gathered and had a small puja (ritual asking for prayers) at home.
Distributing Joy
My favorite part of Diwali is making little packets of sweets and snacks that we share with neighbors and friends. I even take some for my coworkers and neighbors who may not celebrate Diwali. Doing this gives me a chance to share this holiday and its beautiful traditions. I love that these days, American elements have been added to Diwali traditions such as having a Diwali Pot-luck similar to a thanksgiving dinner but with desi twists.
Celebrating Diwali in any capacity in America reminds me of the blessing of connecting with the community and the joy of sharing my traditions. This year I am truly thankful to be able to celebrate with my baby as we are now a family of 3. I wish for all of you reading, a blessed day full of light and joy!
