Diwali Foot Prints

Like most Indian festivals and festivals around the world, Diwali is also an occasion for thanksgiving for rich harvest at the end of the rainy season. But even though it is end of rainy season, in some parts of the country rains do continue sporadically. The nine day festival Navrathri ends with Dussera and then the queen of festivals Diwali or Deepavali follows. Diwali's rituals and traditions are many and varies from place to place and the festival is spread over four to five days. The pre-dawn celebration of Diwali in Southern India starts with ceremonial fragrant bath, prayers and eat a feast of sweets. Fire works, rangolis and new cloths are a part of the celebration. Dressing up is one of the most enjoyable aspects of Diwali. It's a way to truly feel that this is a special day.
In the evening people light lamps to illuminate their homes as well as hearts. On this day gifts and sweets are exchanged and the bond among friends and relatives are strengthed through love and shared festivities.
It is a cultural and religious custom to use silver-ware for special occasions like Diwali. I adorned the coffee table with silver-wares for sweets and dry fruits. Setting a festively laid Diwali table for a nice break-fast lunch or dinner is always on cards. From the florist i picked the huge blooms of a lily-stem for the table center piece which matched the table cloth.

Finally the celebration of Diwali is over with memories and with a positive note and now it's time to relax and cherish.