TEXAS — Indian communities across Texas celebrated one of their biggest festivals this year in much smaller settings due to the pandemic.
Diwali is a festival of lights and most commonly celebrated by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs. Diwali celebrates new beginnings and the victory of good versus evil. Festivities usually last five days with Diwali falling on the third day, which was November 14, 2020.
The holiday is celebrated with small oil lamps called “diyas” that are usually placed outside of homes.
“The light symbolizes positive energy. Light drives away darkness. That’s why we need light in our life, to drive away the dark energy,” Nimish Pathak said.
Nimish Pathak and his wife Jolly Pathak have been living in the United States for nearly 30 years and currently reside in Central Texas. They celebrate every year with family and friends at home as well as at larger gatherings at a club house that include food, proper attire, singing religious songs, and playing games.
“Celebration from the deep-down heart is happening but I miss people,” Nimish Pathak said.
The Pathaks celebrated Diwali at home this year with a small feast prepared by Jolly Pathak.
“Usually we make a pretty big menu and I make a lot of stuff for the families that come to our house,” she said.
Nimish Pathak says the holiday is also heavily celebrated among workplaces with a high number of Indian Americans like the IT and health care communities. It’s usually celebrated with potluck among co-workers regardless of their religious background or ethnicities but that’s also not happening as many people now work from home.
“We don’t talk much about the religion. It’s mostly about the celebration and we wish them best. The message of Diwali is let’s bring the happiness in our lives,” Nimish Pathak said.
What’s not widely known is how the pandemic has strained other activities within the Indian community. Kalpesh Soni volunteers with an organization called The Art of Living. He promotes yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises and says he would see upwards of 100 people every other Saturday.
“Now, on Zoom, the maximum number of people I’ve seen is like 10,” Soni said.
The Pathaks and Soni agree that the meaning of Diwali remains the same even if families can’t celebrate together. As Diwali symbolizes a fresh start, they’re confident there are brighter days still to come.
“It’s unfortunate that we are not still able to control the pandemic. I hope we get that positive energy and understanding to stay safe,” Nimish Pathak said.
