Happy Diwali!

These are just some of our Diwali goodies from this morning (some homemade), some lovingly prepared by dear friends, and a few store-bought favorites.

• Top left: Kaara Sev

• Bottom left: Oma Podi

• Top right: Lavang Latika (made by my dear friend Uma — I will definitely be requesting this recipe soon)

• Center: My favorite South Indian sweet, Manoharam, from the famous Grand Sweets in Chennai

• Bottom right: Rava Ladoo made by my mom (Amma)

To be honest, I expected this Diwali to feel a little quiet, maybe even slightly depressing, with just Nikhil and me juggling a hectic schedule while Girish was in another part of the world. But having Amma and Appa at home changed everything. We made a conscious effort to keep Diwali as resplendent as it has always been (without crackers and sparkles), perhaps, but still deeply rooted in tradition.

We woke up bright and early for the traditional Ganga Snaanam (the symbolic holy bath with water from the river Ganga), with Amma applying sesame oil to our hair. The lamps were lit in the puja room, new clothes laid out, sweets, fruits, and flowers arranged with care. Afterward came the traditional bath using shikakai or Ayurvedic hair cleansers to wash off the oil. Then followed the customary phone calls and greetings, starting with the familiar question: “Ganga Snaanam aacha?” Have you had your traditional bath yet? And, of course, sampling all the festive treats, even though it was barely 6 a.m. and involved eating fried snacks before the day had truly begun.

This is what makes Diwali special to me — preserving those small, customary rituals that only gain meaning when shared with family. I do miss the crackers, the lights, and the lively chaos of celebrating in India with friends and extended family. I’m grateful that Girish is able to experience that side of Diwali for us this year in India. Being in different parts of the world during Diwali is never easy, but this year still feels special. We are both with our respective parents and siblings, and that is something truly worth cherishing.

May this Diwali be an occasion for each of you to spend meaningful time with your family and enjoy every moment together.

Happy Diwali.