The Covid-19 pandemic has indeed altered our sensibilities. The very meaning of a ‘great day’ has evolved and we have begun to see beauty in simplicity. A perfect day is one that is spent with family members and pets with friends by your side. That’s why travelling to be with them or getting together to explore new destinations means so much more.

If travelling during Diwali week is on your mind, then the long weekend will fuel your joy further. Diwali is being celebrated on Nov 4-5, which is Thursday-Friday. Add the impending weekend to it and you have a line-up of family fun staring at you. (Check out Page 2 for quick getaway options to visit with your family).

With flights, trains and road trips opening up cost-effective options to meet and enjoy, plan cautiously and keep safety as your top priority. Once your tickets are booked then plan the perfect Diwali day ahead. Make it meaningful, true to its spirit of humility and gratitude.

The Festival of Lights must bring along opportunities for boosting India’s local economy, right at the grass-root levels. Make efforts to support small businesses, artisans, artists, farmers, healthcare workers, blue-collar staff and our brave soldiers. The essence of the festival time is to share resources and honour life. Make this year’s Diwali all the more special by donating to those who are in need.

Reconnect with your roots, be the harbinger of hope. Be there for someone whose reasons to celebrate Diwali may have been wiped away due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Gift them the joy of being alive!

Go ahead, light up diyas and make great memories! Happy Diwali to our esteemed readers.