October 31, 2016
With Fall came the most awaited festival of the year – Diwali. It is the triumph of good over evil and as we call it, the festival of lights.
The season of Diwali fills the air with joy and a sense of togetherness. All homes are decorated with lights and diyas (made of clay with a wick that is lit when dipped in oil), families and friends gather to celebrate the festive season, a lot of Indian savory and sweet dishes are made and firecrackers are burst.
This was my first Diwali in the United States. We organized an amazing Diwali dinner at my place, where we made mouth-watering Indian chaat dishes and spent a wonderful evening together. Even though I did not get to burst firecrackers and I did miss my family, my friends made it feel like home. They were the crackers (pataka) of the season. 😀
Also, the Association of Indian Students at USC organized a Diwali program, where students showcased their talents. There were brilliant acts and it indeed was a great show. Everyone was dressed in their traditional best and it was the most colorful sight.
All in all, it was a memorable Diwali and with my most amazing “pataka” friends, LA now feels like a home away from home.
This is my home in India all decked up for Diwali –
And this is us celebrating our first Diwali at USC –
Published on July 26th, 2017
Last updated on August 10th, 2017