As co-founders of Little Owl Stories, Yvonne and I wanted to celebrate the rich heritage we were raised in through our first stories. Diwali, the grandest celebration in the South Asian calendar, was the perfect inspiration.
Growing up, Diwali was a magical time in our home. The excitement began with lighting oil lamps and preparing delicious treats to share with family and friends. Dishes like Murruku, Rasamalai, and Puliyodharai were staples in our South Indian household, and lucky for me, my mom’s culinary skills ensured we thoroughly enjoyed every bite.
But what truly made Diwali special were the sparklers. My brother, friends, and I would gather in the backyard in the evening, waving sparklers to create dazzling patterns and attempting to write our names in the night sky. Our house, adorned with fairy lights, glowed as if it were Christmas, adding to the festive spirit.
While my parents always made sure to explain the significance of Diwali (and the fact that it wasn't just about food and sparklers), it wasn’t until adulthood that I fully grasped its profound meaning. Although the tales behind the festival vary across South Asia—whether it’s Lord Rama vanquishing Ravana or Krishna and Satyabama defeating Narakasura— they all convey the same message: good triumphs over evil, and light overcomes darkness. But what does this mean in our daily lives?
For me, this message manifests in three key ways:
- Embrace kindness (Good vs. bad)
In both personal and professional realms, it’s tempting to respond negatively when faced with unkindness. However, I’ve learned that responding with kindness is far more rewarding in the long run. When we choose kindness, we often inspire the same behavior in others, fostering a more positive environment.
- Seek out the good (Light vs. darkness)
It’s easy to feel disheartened by the suffering and injustice in the world. The stark contrast between wealth and poverty, peace and conflict, can make one skeptical about humanity’s goodness. Yet, amidst the darkness, there are always those who strive to make a difference. Whether through volunteering, donations, or advocacy, there are countless acts of kindness and hope that shine brightly, reaffirming my faith in humanity.
- Practice humility (Humble vs. arrogant)
In our pursuit of success and material wealth, humility can often be overshadowed. It’s important to enjoy our achievements without using them to belittle others. True success lies in lifting others up and treating everyone with respect and dignity.
As I reflect on these lessons, I realize that the stories and teachings of Diwali were meant to instill these values of kindness, hope, and humility. This is what Diwali means to me.
What does Diwali mean to you?
- Krithika