6th November, 2024
I’m Nikita, an Office Coordinator who’s worked for the group for ten years. I enjoy getting to know foster carers from different walks of life and working with teams from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Everyone respects our differences here, and there are equal opportunities for all.
I’m Hindu and Diwali is our main festival. This is the most exciting time of the year and preparation starts a month before Diwali. Diwali is a five-day festival of light, symbolising the victory of light over darkness. Each day has its own unique traditions and rituals that bring us together as a family.
The first day is called Dhanteras, which is all about welcoming prosperity into our lives. We usually buy something new, like gold jewellery or a nice kitchen utensil, as it’s considered lucky and is believed to bring good fortune.
The second day is Choti Diwali, which is about purification. We take special baths, sometimes with fragrant oils, symbolizing cleansing and getting rid of negativity.
Diwali is the festival's third day and, per the Hindu calendar, is the last day of the year. We decorate the entire house with diyas (small lamps), string lights, and rangoli patterns on the doorstep. Rangoli is creating colourful patterns on the floor to welcome the Goddess Laxmi. We prepare traditional food and sweets. In the evening, we gather to perform Lakshmi Puja, praying to the Goddess Laxmi of wealth to bless our home and loved ones. After the prayers, we set off fireworks, filling the night sky with light and colour. It’s a night of light, laughter, and connection, and it always brings us closer.
The fourth day is the first day of the new year. We prepare a big feast, and after offering it in gratitude, we enjoy the meal together. We visit each other's homes, and children seek blessings from adult family members and, in return, receive gifts. This day is all about enjoying delicious food, spending time with family, and receiving blessings.
We end Diwali with Bhai Dooj, a celebration of the bond between siblings. Sisters perform a small ritual for their brothers, wishing them well, and in return, brothers give gifts as a sign of love and appreciation. It’s a sweet and meaningful way to wrap up the festivities, focusing on family ties.
For us, Diwali is a beautiful time of love, light, and tradition. It’s a chance to reconnect, express gratitude, and celebrate the good things in life with the people who matter most.
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