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.
![The Quint gives a few tips on how to make Diwali fun while you are away from your home and family.](https://images.thequint.com/thequint%2F2016-10%2Fef1721e2-4394-4a3f-beb2-bfc54657a09c%2F963a8cef-d12b-40e6-b9b1-8a3c27945bb2.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fmt=webp&width=720)
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!
![The Quint gives a few tips on how to make Diwali fun while you are away from your home and family.](https://images.thequint.com/thequint%2F2016-10%2Fd941fc58-16d8-42f4-b7d5-bdfd1b2b7344%2FiStock_70262139_MEDIUM.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fmt=webp&width=720)
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.
![The Quint gives a few tips on how to make Diwali fun while you are away from your home and family.](https://images.thequint.com/thequint%2F2016-10%2F7e9e6e1e-9e4f-48eb-ab5c-1e1ff2bed686%2FiStock_18103214_MEDIUM.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fmt=webp&width=720)
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.
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.
![The Quint gives a few tips on how to make Diwali fun while you are away from your home and family.](https://images.thequint.com/thequint%2F2016-10%2F959826dd-46bc-4eda-b38e-f849434e38b0%2FiStock_44989608_MEDIUM.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&fmt=webp&width=720)
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.
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.
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)