Countdown to Diwali in Bath

Sparklers, sweets and everything I'm looking forward to

September to November is my favourite time of year, not only because of the pretty autumn colours but because it is festival season. From Ganesh Chaturthi to Navratri, almost every few weeks there is a new reason to celebrate. However, for me, Diwali is the highlight of the year.

Diwali is a Hindu festival celebrating light and the triumph of good over evil. To celebrate, people draw rangoli, paint diyas, make sweets and hang up lots and lots of lights. For me, the golden glow of fairy lights, sparklers and fireworks is what makes Diwali the most memorable festival. 

 

Celebrating with friends

At university, the part I enjoy most is spending time with my close friends, who make Bath feel like home during the festive season. Although I am away from my family, celebrating with them brings back many of the things I love most about Diwali, such as the excitement of getting dressed up, sharing food and spending the day surrounded by people I care about.   

I love the lead-up as much as the day itself, from planning outfits and deciding who is cooking what, to putting up fairy lights and getting the house ready for the evening. Even the smallest moments, like laughing in the kitchen, taking lots of photos or sitting down together for a meal, make the day feel memorable. 

 

Diwali events at Bath

I also love getting involved in the Diwali events, from ResLife’s rangoli making to the Diwali Balls hosted by the Bath Indian and Bath Hindu societies. There really is something for everyone!

If you prefer a calmer, creative afternoon, you can sit down with friends and make rangoli patterns or paint diyas. If you’d rather dress up and dance the night away, the balls are full of music, great food and a fantastic atmosphere. And if you simply want to see what Diwali is all about, there are plenty of events where you can drop in, try something new and meet people along the way. Each event is fun and inclusive in its own way, and you don’t need to have celebrated Diwali before to feel welcome. 

 

Making your own traditions

Diwali is full of traditions that bring people together and welcome good luck for the year ahead. Anyone can join in, and these are some of my favourites:  

• Making rangoli: colourful patterns drawn at the entrance of a home to welcome good fortune.
• Painting diyas: diyas are lit around the home during Diwali, and painting your own makes them feel more personal.   
• Cooking special dishes: Diwali means a spread of sweets, curries and everything in between. For me, this usually involves a lot of calls to my mum for help!   

 

How to get involved this year

Fairy lights on, outfit ready and sweets in hand. Diwali in Bath is almost here, and I couldn’t be more excited. Happy Diwali!