What to Do If You Are Celebrating Diwali Away From Home

The Quint gives a few tips on how to make Diwali fun while you are away from your home and family.

Diwali away from home can be made fun too. Representational Image. (Photo: iStock)

It is that time of the year again. The city is bejewelled with lights announcing the arrival of upcoming festivities. Markets are overflowing with people indulging in their annual shopping ritual. Railway stations have suddenly become more crowded with people excitedly catching trains to go home.

Diwali envelopes the surroundings in a beautiful cover of light and happiness. Representational Image. (Photo: iStock)

Diwali has a strong tradition of "home coming" and all those who are separated from their family either due to work or education are pulled towards their homes.

Sometimes, though, the strings of commitments are stronger and they pull us back, keeping us away from our family.

But should this deter you from celebrating Diwali? Absolutely not. Beating the blues, you must celebrate the festival with as much enthusiasm, if not more.

Here are a few ways in which you can spread the light this Diwali:

1. Get Into the Mood

Half the fun of Diwali lies in the preparations that start well in advance. So get yourself in the festive mood by indulging in some pre-Diwali shopping. You can also revamp your PG or rented flat by decorating it with fairy lights and flowers. Don’t forget to buy diyas and rangoli colours for the Diwali day and you are good to go!

Light up your transitory home with gleams of diyas. Representational Image. (Photo: iStock)

2. Fall Back on Your Friends

For people living away from home, friends become family. This might be the perfect time to visit your friends and celebrate the festival with them. Either visit them at their homes or arrange a small get-together at your place. This way you would be spending the day with people you love.

Spending Diwali with friends would make you feel closer to home. Representational Image. (Photo: iStock)

3. Stay Away From Crackers

Yes, this is a must. You can absolutely have a fantastic Diwali without adding to the already alarming levels of pollution in the air.

Also Read: Pollution Alert: Delhi Air Plunges To “Very Poor” Ahead of Diwali

4. Treat Yourself With Lip-Smacking Diwali Delicacies

Indian festivals are high on food. There are so many dishes to choose from that we are spoilt for choices. This Diwali exercise your choice and indulge in sweets, chocolates or anything that you like. This way you would feel closer to home. And don't worry, you can give the calorie count some rest for a day.

Diwali is high on sweets. Make sure to have your fill. Representational Image. (Photo: iStock)

5. Make Use of Technology

Though you cannot celebrate Diwali with your family, you sure can make a skype/video call to them. Ask them what they are doing and tell them your plans. This would ring in the nostalgia but definitely make you feel closer to them.

6. Experiment With Your Wardrobe

While picking out your Diwali outfit, experiment and think out of the box. Ditch the regular drapes and silhouettes. This would also keep you busy and not let thoughts of home dampen your spirits.

Also Read: What to Wear This Diwali So You Don’t Look Like Everyone Else

7. Spread the light

This Diwali do something to make someone else's Diwali brighter. Visit an orphanage or help someone in need. The sheer happiness on their face will light up your day.

Also Read: Help Us Spread The Light at a Women’s Hostel For Visually Impaired