Glowing Traditions

Members of the Tatler community share how they celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights 

- Tara Sobti

Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, holds immense cultural and spiritual importance for millions around the world. Rooted in Hindu culture and mythology, it signifies the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. This year, Diwali will take place on November 12. We ask members of the Tatler community in Hong Kong how they’re celebrating the auspicious occasion.

RINA WADHWANI

Director, Wadhsons Group Preparations usually begin two months in advance. There are many balls, lunches and other events— and we can spend an entire month indulging in the festivities. My home is cleaned thoroughly before Diwali, and decorated with diyas [small, cup-shaped oil lamps], rangoli [art drawn on the floor, usually at the entrances of homes] and fresh flowers. We invite friends and family to our home to feast on Indian delicacies and sweets. It is auspicious to send food hampers to relatives and friends.

Two days before Diwali is a festival known as Dhanteras [which marks the commencement of the celebrations]. We gather in our office for prayers. Dhanteras is a day that is believed to bring and increase wealth and prosperity, and buying gold coins and jewellery are considered very lucky on this day.

On Diwali morning, the entire family gathers to pray at our home. Wearing new clothes is a must on Diwali day, as it signifies new beginnings. I also use new bedding and towels.

We prepare a vegetarian feast of savoury and sweet dishes. One of my favourites is homemade coconut, pistachio and rose mithai [Indian sweets]. In the evening, we visit the temple for more prayers and chanting. We always have dinner with the extended family and relatives at a restaurant. Gifts of gold, cash and jewellery are exchanged among our family too. It’s a very busy month!