My Diwali-2006

Diwali is the festival of light, happiness, fireworks, sweets..

I always miss my home the most on diwali as I did not get the chance of being with my family on past few diwalis..I had to face the same state on this diwali also!! This time I had decided to enjoy the festival with full zest and to stay in high spirits..

As usual,It was a working day here. I thought of taking a half day off which I do on the Indian festivals. I was please to know that my Thai Boss knew about diwali as it is some what similar to a Thai festival Loykrotong (festival of light) which is not as grand as diwali. I was overwhelmed when I got the full day leave.

Early morning on diwali I received a call from parents wishing me and asking about office, they were also please to know that I got a day off...next two hours went on online chat to them, discussing about diwali plans and messaging everyone for the festival.

After the chat I started my day with cleaning my apartment to get the feel of 'Diwali ki Safai' which although was very late but hardly took an hour to get over. Noon was approaching and I had an invitation from an Indian family to attend the diwali pooja at their place in afternoon. I took out the new salwar kameez from my wardrobe which was sent recently from India. I dressed up myself in new outfit and accessories - bangles, earrings , necklace and bindi. I got a special feeling..I adored myself as I glanced in mirror I was looking a princess!!

I attended the diwali poojan which was a formal one with punditji enchanting the hymns and all aartis to please Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshami.The deities were offered many types of sweets, milk, curd and fruits. All this was distributed later as prasad. The Pooja lasted for two hours. I had a nice feast and a got lovely present.

At dusk, I was back home. I lit some candles and did pooja with my brother in my own little way. In between I was getting phone calls from family and friends. It gave me tremendous pleasure to wish and get the good wishes.

As preplanned I went out for a dinner to have authentic Indian cuisine where my friends also joined me. None of us is an expert to cook for a feast. So we decided to go for an Indian restaurant. Although the bookings was not made but there was enough space to accommodate nine people. It was a delight for us as our Christian and Muslim friends also joined and were equally enthusiastic on the festival. Our table was full of varied dishes from Biryani to Kadai Paneer, from Butter naan to Bhatura. Every one enjoyed the Jalebis which arrived surprisingly as a complementary on Diwali. While chatting to the friends, I realized that all were sailing in the same boat and although all were far away from their families yet everyone was cheerful while sharing their joys and good wishes with each other. The only missing part was fireworks which were played in limited areas and we couldn't got there.

When I went to the bed, I was satisfied the way I had celebrated my diwali. Festivals are special as they get so much of delight, pleasure, good spirits and positive energy with them. They know no boundaries, the special feelings should come from within self and these are reflected outside in the form of joys and goodness.