Pune’s Celebrated Look Forward To Quiet Family Time

October 19, 2017

Diwali Celebration — Image for representation only

The festival of lights sees Pune’s homes and streets lit with lamps, diyas and colourful decorations. As we become more sensitive and aware of our environment and surroundings, many have opted to celebrate a cracker-free festival.

Pune365 speaks to eminent Puneites on their plans for Diwali..

Sampada Vaze, Actress

“I always spend time with my family during Diwali. I also end up buying something for myself as well as supporting a charitable cause in Pune. My cause is towards animal welfare. I buy medicines, food and supplies that go to local charities. I love crackers but I know that it isn’t correct to burst them. A lot of my childhood was spent in celebrating Diwali this way. I might just light a small fuljhadi to remind me that it’s Diwali.”

Sameer Desai, Director, Seagull Advertising

“I will be spending Diwali at home.

This year, my daughter insists on a quiet Diwali for a healthier environment. So, in that sense I will be spending a quiet and silent Diwali with family and friends.”

Priyanka Rajiv, Designer

“There will be a Diwali puja at home.

We will not be bursting any crackers this Diwali.

My family and I will be travelling for a destination wedding.”

Sudha Menon, Author and Biographer

“Diwali is the only time of the year I take a break and spend time with my family. For once, I let go off my diet and indulge in all the Diwali goodies.

This time of the year reminds me of my childhood; of Amma making rawa laddoos, shankarpali and chaklis. It was also when we all got new clothes and Amma took us out to select our own clothes. To this day, I look forward to buying my family new clothes and dressing up in a new saree for Lakshmi puja.

The only thing during Diwali that dampens the spirit is the deafening noise of crackers and the pollution.

I live in a gated community where burning crackers is a contentious issue. It is terrible for animals and for us. My daughter gets a bout of wheezing every Diwali and I think the plants and trees droop too because of the pollution. We need to open our minds and adopt a less damaging way to celebrate festivals.”