The festival of lights, Diwali, is not just a celebration — it is the very soul of Indian culture. On one hand, it symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, and on the other, it revives familial bonds, togetherness, and cultural heritage. Yet, in modern times, a particular scene stands out — villages light up, while cities grow quiet.
Every year, during the festive season, a large number of people return to their villages. Whether due to jobs, businesses, or education, people who live in cities head back to their hometowns for Diwali, leaving cities deserted — because the human heart always longs for home, where it finds true belonging.
In cities, amidst sparkling roads, malls, and towering buildings, the festive glow of Diwali can certainly be seen — but it often lacks the warmth and intimacy once deeply felt in villages. People remain busy — stuck in traffic jams or sending “virtual greetings” on mobile screens. Firecrackers explode in the streets, but the silence in hearts often muffles their sound.
In cities, Diwali has become more of an event — decorations, selfies, social media posts, and noise. But somewhere in all this, the real essence of the festival — that sense of belonging — seems lost. In contrast, the lanes of villages radiate a different kind of joy during Diwali. The glow of earthen lamps doesn’t just light up homes but also illuminates hearts.
Every courtyard is adorned with rangoli. Elders are engaged in preparations for worship, children are running around the neighborhood — it’s as if the whole village is one big family.
Here, Diwali is not just about lighting lamps, but about lighting up relationships. People visit each other’s homes with sweets, sit together, laugh, and share stories. The warmth of humanity outshines even the electric lights — it is what truly illuminates these villages.
Cities may be filled with material comforts, but the emotional connection and cultural warmth are still very much alive in the villages.
The true meaning of Diwali is not just light — it’s about coming together to experience that light. When an entire village lights its lamps in unison, it spreads not just brightness, but a message:
“True happiness lies where hearts are connected.”
