Family spreads light from their home to yours this Deepavali
Dr Moodley and Dr Govender of uMhlanga share how their family celebrates the festival of lights.
AN uMhlanga family pulls out all the stops for Diwali – from traditional clothing, rituals and sweetmeats to breyani and lighting clay lamps around their home, all bases are covered and everyone gets involved.
Both surgeons at their busy practice, Dr Morven Moodley and Dr Tracey Govender, ensure that family time is set aside on the auspicious day. Their children, Nileshan and Kayla, are always excited to celebrate.
Also read: Bringing the community together with local healers, spiritual teachers
This year, Hindus will celebrate Diwali or Deepavali on Thursday, October 31. The religious holiday signifies the triumph of light over darkness and Lord Rama and Mother Sita’s return from exile.
Also read: One toy makes a world of difference for Briardene children’s fun day
Dr Govender says the day starts bright and early with a three-oil bath. It’s a cleansing ritual where three different oils are dabbed onto different parts of the body.
“Then we dress up in traditional clothing and have brunch with family and friends. Later in the afternoon, we visit other family and exchange gifts and sweetmeats. When we return home, we light our clay lamps and light fireworks,” she said.
This is followed by a delicious supper, usually breyani.
“Diwali is a meaningful occasion for spiritual growth and connection. For our family, it serves as a reminder of values such as generosity, gratitude and hope. It’s also a time for reflection on the past year,” said Dr Govender.
It wouldn’t be Diwali without:
Pistachio burfee is always in the Moodley, Govender family’s Diwali sweetmeat box.
Eastern attire is a must in the morning, except for Dr Moodley who dons Western wear.
The sweetmeat the family most looks forward to receiving is Gulab Jamun made by their close friend, Payal.
For more from the Highway Mail, follow us on Facebook , X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter here
