Diwali: a promise to ourselves

RENEWED HOPE AND FOCUS

- MAYA JAGJIVAN KALICHARAN

RAGHUKUL reet sada chali aayi, pran jaaye par vachan na jaayi,Ram Siya Ram, Siya Ram Jai Jai Ram.

The melodic proverb from Ramanand Sagar’s epic television series based on the Ramayan echoes through our home in the late 1980s — powerful and profound.

Musical notes merge with the distinct scent of sandalwood incense sticks burning — a memory framed beautifully by perfectly round, bright orange marigolds gently plucked from our garden.

Over the years, the entire VHS collection, purchased by my parents from the iconic Roopanands, takes pride of place in our cabinet.

Fast forward to my home today, that childhood nostalgia is replaced by me streaming the same song on my smart television or cellphone, in fervent prayer that my children will understand the deep meaning of the proverb.

Like Lord Ram, we too must always keep our promises and stay true to our word.

It was this commitment that made it easy for Lord Ram to accept 14 years of exile. For me, this proverb has also been a benchmark for my understanding of life.

The word “reet” means customs — and growing up, I recall my late grandmother talking passionately about “reet rivaaj” — customs and traditions — that became the essence of our identity.

The customs and traditions of Diwali are rich and meaningful, and speak to my soul.

Preparations begin weeks before spring cleaning, shopping for the prayer and sweetmeats, deciding which Diwali hamper drive to support, and buying new clothes for my sons.

I’m no expert on sweetmeats, but every year I make a small portion to offer for our prayer at home, getting my sons involved too.