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Celebrating Our Indian Festivals in America: A Family Tradition of Joy and Togetherness
For the diaspora, these festivals are moments of joy, reflection, and community.
Representative Image / AI Generated
Growing up in an Indian household in the United States, festivals have always shaped our family’s identity and kept us close to our roots. Each celebration is more than just a holiday—it’s a reminder of who we are, where we come from, and the values that connect us across generations. For us, these festivals are moments of joy, reflection, and community.
Diwali: Lights, Laughter, and Sweetness
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, usually falls in late October or early November. Our family marks the five-day celebration by starting with Dhanteras, when we clean, decorate, and buy a small piece of silver or utensils for prosperity and health. Choti Diwali follows with early oil baths and the first glowing diyas around the house. On the main night, Lakshmi Puja, our home fills with marigolds, prayers, and rows of lamps. Govardhan Puja honors Krishna with a hearty family feast, and Bhai Dooj closes the festival as sisters bless brothers with gifts and aarti. In 2024, Dhanteras falls on October 29 and Diwali night on October 31—dates that help us stay connected to India while celebrating light and togetherness in our American home.
Holi: Colors and Connections
Holi bursts with color, laughter, and contagious joy. Each spring, we gather in our backyard or a local park, armed with vibrant powder and water balloons. Our local temple hosts a lively community Holi with DJs, food stalls, and a dedicated team of volunteers. Neighbors of every background join in the festivities, curious and often surprised, but always welcomed. The colors, music, and shared laughter create memories that bring the wider community together and connect us to the festive spirit of India.
Navratri: Devotion and Dance
Navratri is a nine-night festival honoring Goddess Durga. We decorate our home shrine, light lamps, sing bhajans, and wear different hues each evening to honor the day’s deity. Our local temple organizes special events, including aartis, chanting sessions, and vibrant Garba and Dandiya dances that continue late into the night. These celebrations combine devotion, music, and dance, reinforcing family bonds and community connections.
Ganesh Chaturthi: New Beginnings
We also celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi, bringing a clay idol of Lord Ganesha into our home for prayers before immersing it in water, symbolizing the removal of obstacles and new beginnings.
Together, these festivals keep our family rooted in India’s traditions while embracing the diverse community we’ve built in the United States, ensuring our cultural heartbeat remains vibrant and meaningful for generations to come.
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