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Discovering Digital Diwali During Pandemic

Diwali is around the corner, and we’d be lying if we say it isn’t the most loved festival of India. Diwali has always been a time of joy, colors, light, and
celebrations. We all look forward to that one week of ultimate celebration, where we forget every work, and dive into the vibe of lights.

However, during 2020 with the Covid-19 pandemic, the tables turned, and what we saw was something we never witnessed during Diwali. Every year, the festival of lights is one of the most awaited events of the year when people come together to celebrate the victory of light over darkness. A sense of bonding over crackers, delicacies, decorations, and gifts is formed during this time of the year.

With Coronavirus taking over our lives, the enthusiasm for the festival was different last year and seems the same this year too. Last year, everyone was baffled about the thought of celebrating Diwali during the pandemic with the same vigor and joy. The pandemic has still not ended, and we look forward to another year of Diwali during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Having said that, can we give up the spirit of celebrating Diwali amidst the Covid chaos? Well, we certainly can’t. Just like last year, this year too calls for some innovative and safe Diwali celebration ideas. During times like these, let us win over the darkness of pandemics and ward off the evil from the air by being safe and socially distant.

How has Diwali Celebrations Changed During Covid-19 Pandemic?
We’ve been using the term ‘safe Diwali,’ mainly to imply the idea of cracker-free Diwali. However, in these Covid times, the word, ‘safe’, suggests protecting ourselves and our families from the deadly virus. Many people are skeptical about going out and partying to immerse themselves in the spirit of Diwali. There will also be people who would love to get together to celebrate the festival. Thus, the decision to celebrating Diwali lies in
your wisdom and will.

Last year, we realized we do not necessarily need to come together to find happiness and celebrate festivities. Living in the digital era, it is quite possible to be a part of so many people’s celebrations at the same time. We very successfully discovered a digital Diwali last year, and hopefully, we’ll celebrate the same this year too.

Let me be honest, the lockdown and pandemic have brought families closer than they ever were. How can there be a better way to celebrate than being surrounded by the people you love. Remember those times when you would skip family celebrations to be at your friend’s Diwali party? Well, it’s time you celebrate the festival this time with your family. The in-home family celebrations are a joy in themselves. In fact, social media and video calls are a savior and keeping us sane during such socially distant times. They are a crucial way of allowing people to connect with their loved ones in a Covid-safe manner.

How to Celebrate a Safe Diwali During Pandemic?
If you are looking for ways to celebrate Diwali during Covid-19, here are some ways you can feel the zeal while being safe.

Indoor Family Party
Who even decided you need people to have fun? An indoor family party is an amazing idea to stay safe yet feel the festive vibe. All you have to do is decorate your home, light it up, wear your favorite clothes, and cook yummy food. With food, glitzy apparel, decorations, and music, the party already sounds complete. You might feel tempted to go out and celebrate with your neighbors or distant family members, but you don’t want to
brush against each other. So, why take the risk when you can be safe.

Rangoli and Games
Indoor celebrations are not limited to pooja and food. You can spend your day making rangoli together and helping your mother with cleaning. Chalk out a Diwali dinner menu and get started with its preparation. You can also include a list of games like Tambola, Antakshari, Dumb Charades, or just dance to your favorite songs. With so much to do, you won’t even know how the day passes.

DIY Decorations
We love the vibe of Diwali in markets. With so many colorful ornaments and lights, we end up buying everything that allures us. However, visiting markets is not a safe idea during these times. We all are well aware of the rush in markets during festivals. You can decorate your home with fairy lights, handmade diyas, and wall decorations. Take help from your little ones and ask them to get creative with origami lanterns and other decorative stuff. You can order craft materials online and start preparations a week ahead.

Catch Up Digitally with Friends
The essence of Diwali stays missing without seeing everyone all dressed up and happy. With social distancing protocols to follow, you can catch up with your friends and family through a video call. Wish them and share celebrations to let them know you miss them during the celebration.

Final Thoughts
The effect of COVID can spell havoc for everyone. It is hard to compress the Diwali celebration spirit, but it is also time to act responsibly. No matter how safe you think you and your friends and family are, try to keep the celebrations low-key. The young ones of the family need to look after the elderly and children. You should avoid attending mass gatherings. Instead, spend quality time with family and prepare feasts, decorate the house, and send greetings digitally. Also, don’t forget to dress your best and click lots of pictures to share with your loved ones.

 

by Purodhika Sharma

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