The absence of familiar chaos: The bustling sounds of relatives, neighbours, and street celebrations are replaced by a quiet, almost nostalgic stillness.
DIY traditions: You find yourself decorating your flat with makeshift diyas and store-bought sweets, cherishing small acts that keep you connected to home.
Digital connections: Video calls and virtual greetings become your new aarti, keeping the emotional spark alive across time zones.
Reimagined priorities: Without the noise of celebration, you begin to reflect on what Diwali truly means—renewal, gratitude, and inner light.
A bittersweet pride: Though you miss home deeply, there’s pride in keeping traditions alive on your own, proving that the light travels with you, wherever you go.