Family Celebrates Diwali with Modern Updates

• Family blends new traditions with Arya Samaj roots for a unique Diwali celebration.
• "Many Ramayanas" enriches Diwali, offering diverse perspectives, personal resonance.
• Diwali is celebrated with sensory experiences, family sharing, and reading new books.

Diwali, the festival of lights, takes on a special meaning when viewed through the lens of individual family traditions. This piece dives into how one family has embraced a personalized approach to Diwali, creating a meaningful blend of old and new customs. It also delves into the relevance of diverse narratives like the Ramayana in understanding the essence of cultural celebrations.

Family's Diwali

For one family, Diwali is more than just a festival; it's a tapestry woven with unique rituals. Despite their skepticism towards rigid traditions, the author's family, with its Arya Samaj leanings, has embraced Diwali by weaving a set of family rituals. This departure from conventional practices has been spearheaded by the matriarch. Diwali brings together the family, creating a circle of trust and belonging. Every year, each family member shares something they are thankful for, as well as a wish. This simple act has strengthened their bonds and created a shared history, filled with laughter and touching moments.

Many Ramayanas

This year, the author's exploration involves 'Many Ramayanas, Many Lessons' by Anand Neelakantan, which has enhanced their Diwali celebrations. This book explores diverse Ramayana versions, echoing the family's approach to tradition: finding personal resonance in different narratives. The author feels that Neelakantan's work resonates with their family's inclination to find the versions and practices that speak to them on a personal level. The book is also seen as a modern version of ancient storytelling, like Ramlila or the Ramayan path. The author suggests reading the book aloud with family, especially if they have younger children.

Personal Traditions

Diwali is a blend of sensory experiences: the scent of flowers, especially lilies and marigolds; the voice of the author's mother calling everyone for the puja; and the sight of diyas. It's also about delicious food like kheer kodom and kalakand. Diwali offers new experiences, including reading new books and wearing new clothes. Each day of Diwali week, the author plans to read a chapter or two from 'The Many Ramayanas,' weaving it into their celebrations. The author also asks the readers about their cherished traditions and Diwali rituals.