After celebrating Navratri — one of my favorite festivals — I am now back in Dublin. It honestly feels like I blinked twice, and the days just flew by. Between unpacking my bags, adjusting to the cloudy weather, and trying not to exhaust myself, I am already preparing for another celebration — Diwali, the festival of lights, love, and laughter.
There are so many festivals throughout the year, but Diwali has always been the most special to me.
Once we leave home to chase our dreams, one thing that always finds its way back — especially during festivals — is homesickness. When everyone back home gathers together, that’s when the feeling hits hardest.
Luckily, for the past three years, I have had a group of friends who have become like family. We come together every Diwali to cook, laugh, and celebrate — making sure none of us feel too lonely. While we all miss our families, sharing this time together truly fills that gap.
This year was no different — lights glowing on the windows, songs playing softly in the background, homemade food, snacks, and lots of sweets. A few sparkerles before goodbyes and, of course, group pictures for Instagram — memories to look back on in 2025 and years ahead. Everyone dressed in traditional clothes, looking absolutely lovely.
As we are just two months away from 2026, I can’t help but feel grateful for the people who have stood by me, been a call away, or simply made me smile when I needed it most. I hope the coming year brings more joy, health, and prosperity to all of us.
BRB — I need one last samosa and maybe a few more sweets before I even think about going back on a diet! Then again, with Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, maybe I’ll just postpone that thought for a while longer. 😅
Still, nothing compares to the Diwali of my childhood — helping my mother clean the house, preparing snacks, buying new clothes, and watching my father struggle (and fail twice!) to hang the lantern before we all burst out laughing. Evenings filled with prayers, colourful rangoli, pocket money from elders, and the joy of a few sparklers — those moments are truly priceless.
While times have changed and everything’s just a click away now, those memories remain eternal. I feel lucky to have lived those days and even luckier to still carry their essence with me.
That’s all for today — wishing you a healthy, safe, and joy-filled Diwali!
May your home be full of light, laughter, and love. 🌸✨ Saal Mubarak! ( Happy New Year)