Diwali for beginners 'BECOME ENLIGHTENED, NEW ZEALAND!'

The ancient Hindu and Sikh festival Diwali starts on November 12 and lasts for five days. We asked some of the hosts of Indian radio station Humm FM what the holiday means to them

Sandy Sekhon

Drive Show co-host and assistant content director

What does Diwali mean to you?

Hindus and Sikhs around the globe celebrate the festival of lights, and the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness. Diwali brings back good memories of my hometown in Punjab, India. It’s a day when I connect with my loved ones. The vibe is so pure and full of positivity that it motivates you to start things afresh.

How do you celebrate? 

Weeks before Diwali, there used to be a process of cleaning the whole house, reorganising and then decorating it. My house used to be lit up with lamps and lights, and relatives visited. There’s a lot of exchanging of gifts and sweets, and we all enjoy delicious feasts.

In my household, we also believe in donations during this time. When I was a kid, my brother and I used to compete with our neighbours to see whose fireworks lasted the longest and went the highest. Growing up, I had a change of mind about polluting the air and said no to fireworks. Maturity hits!

Is there a tradition you’d like to see everyone embrace? 

I would love to see all Kiwis embrace the message of Diwali, of celebrating good things. New Zealand is a beautiful country, with lovely people and so many cultures – it’s amazing. I see New Zealand as my home away from home. 

What’s your favourite Diwali dish?