Join team member Mousumi for the Festival of Lights, and set the table for a celebration full of warmth, colour and spices.
For millions round the world, Diwali, otherwise known as the Hindu Festival of Lights, involves cherished rituals with loved ones to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness. Mousumi, Woolworths – Cartology’s Digital Out of Home Operations Specialist, knows exactly how to bring this festive spirit to life.
Over the course of five days, she prepares her house with deep cleaning and decorating – hanging up lights and lighting diyas (oil lamps). “Diwali is all about spreading happiness, gratitude, and positivity,” says Mousumi. “The festival is all about spreading light – lighting clay oil lamps, candles and lanterns to symbolise the victory of light over darkness. On the third day, we perform Lakshmi Puja (a ritual to honour the Goddess Lakshmi), light up the whole house and feast together.
“Food is a huge part of our celebration,” Mousumi explains. “These dishes I have shared – the paneer tikka with mint chutney and gajar halwa – are traditional recipes. I have learned everything I know about food from my mum and mother-in-law.”
Celebrate with Diwali food recipes
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Mango lassi
Using a blender, blend 1 cup fresh or frozen mango flesh, 1 cup Greek-style natural yoghurt, 1 pinch ground cardamom and 1 tsp sugar until smooth and frothy. Add 1-2 tbs water for thinning if too thick. Pour into serving glasses. Add a thin wedge of mango and sprinkle with a little extra cardamom.
Diwali sweets to make
While every care has been taken to ensure these recipes are vegetarian and gluten-free, always check labels as ingredients may vary from brand to brand.
What is Diwali?
At its heart, Diwali celebrates the triumph of light, hope, and togetherness. Wax, brass, or clay diyas are filled with oil and lit, then placed around entryways in the home to welcome good fortune. Tealight candles, scented candles and colourful fairy lights are also placed on table settings and hung along window frames and around the outside of the house to illuminate the festive nights.
Diwali flowers: magical marigolds
No Diwali celebration is complete without floral marigold garlands. These vibrant blooms represent prosperity, warmth, and good fortune. The sunny yellow and orange floral strands are strung along doorways, balconies and dining areas to invite blessings into the home and usher in positive energy.