For some, Diwali begins with the sound of the first cracker going off at dawn. For others, it starts with a suitcase packed for a quick getaway, a house full of friends, or a quiet prayer at their favourite temple. hosting parties and dancing the night away, others are planning long drives, pet-friendly celebrations and family reunions While some Chennaiites are looking forward to dressing up. From Sivakasi crackers and Saturday night parties to beachside escapes and intimate celebrations at home, the city is finding its own ways to make this Diwali memorable. We speak to residents across age groups about what they have planned for the festival.
“We have around 15 friends coming together at a friend’s house.
Since everyone gets busy with family commitments on Diwali, Saturday is our chance to celebrate together without any rush,” says Arjun Ganesh, IT professional from Velachery. We usually celebrate with family, but this year we wanted a little getaway together,” says Shruti, architect, Adyar. Sometimes, the best part of a holiday is simply being on the road with your favourite people,” he says. These traditions make the festival meaningful,” says Lakshmi Narayanan, homemaker, Mylapore.
Everyone has been assigned something, from food and decorations to music. We are planning a dress code, a festive dinner and dancing through the night. “My partner and I are driving to Pondicherry this Diwali. We want to spend time by the beach, explore cafés and enjoy a relaxed break away from our regular routine. For Maheshwaran, entrepreneur, Nungambakkam, the journey is as exciting as the destination. “We are planning a road trip to Goa with friends. Long drives, music, roadside food stops, and no fixed itinerary are what we are looking forward to. PRAYERS, FAMILY AND TOGETHERNESS”Diwali begins with prayers in our family. We wear new clothes, visit our neighbourhood temple and return home for a traditional breakfast. We want our children to experience the same rituals we grew up with.