A Family's Diwali
In the spirit of Diwali, a modern, yet tradition-conscious family finds ways to celebrate the festival. Despite being a Westernized family, they adapt
and create personalized Diwali rituals. The article emphasizes how the family's matriarch, a key figure in creating these unique traditions, has woven together a set of family customs that resonate deeply. This approach reflects a conscious effort to find rituals that are meaningful and enriching within a modern framework.
The Essence of Diwali
The article captures the essence of Diwali by describing the tangible and sensory experiences associated with the festival. It includes the scents of flowers, specifically lilies and marigolds, the mother's call to prayer, and the central role of a brass plate of flowers in their circle. The festive atmosphere is also highlighted through the array of sweets, new clothes, and the warm glow of diyas. This depiction creates a vivid picture of the Diwali experience, blending tradition with personal touches that make the festival special for the family.
Ramayana's Many Forms
The article suggests reading 'Many Ramayanas, Many Lessons' during Diwali. It touches upon the idea that the epic Ramayana has numerous versions, each with unique interpretations and meanings. The author suggests this echoes the family's approach to tradition: finding versions and practices that speak personally. This intellectual exploration is akin to A.K. Ramanujan’s essay, 'The Three Hundred Ramayanas,' demonstrating that stories have diverse forms and can be adapted to personal beliefs and circumstances. The author's personal experience shows how such an outlook can transform the way people celebrate their traditions.
Embracing Personal Traditions
The author invites readers to reflect on their own Diwali celebrations and traditions. It encourages considering whether they are ancient, newly created, or a combination of both. It emphasizes the power of family rituals that cultivate trust, belonging, and shared memories. These practices include sharing what one is grateful for and praying for, turning the family circle into a space of emotional support. Such engagement underlines the significance of personalizing cultural celebrations, making them a source of emotional connection and a testament to the family's unique identity.
Modern Storytelling
The article suggests reading 'The Many Ramayanas' aloud as a family, especially with younger children, which is presented as a contemporary interpretation of traditional oral storytelling methods like Ramlila. This encourages families to engage with the epic in a way that respects the past while fitting into modern lifestyles. The focus on the book is indicative of a move to reinterpret classic stories through contemporary learning. The practice promotes family interaction and preserves a valuable cultural tradition in a way that’s accessible and engaging for all family members.
