Hello there,
I write this from my mum or dad’s house in Pune. We’re right here to have a good time Diwali and attend my cousin’s marriage ceremony.
There is no such thing as a higher place to be for Diwali and I’m so comfortable that my youngsters will expertise the pageant at house in Pune.
We are going to do a small Diwali ‘pooja’ (prayer) this night, adopted by dinner with the household. The following few days might be with cousins and prolonged household, after which an even bigger household reunion on the marriage ceremony.
I typically fear that rising up in a hybrid family (my husband is Scottish), and never dwelling in India or in Scotland, our children gained’t expertise both of the cultures correctly. So, each my husband and I make honest effort to immerse them in our respective cultures after we can, particularly after we are in our house international locations.
We’re fortunate that dwelling in Dubai, all festivals are celebrated in order that they get a really feel of cultures past their very own. Nevertheless, I really feel they should know extra notably about their very own cultures.
I’m making an attempt my finest to talk in Hindi to them (it’s laborious and I’ll confess I must 100x my efforts); I encourage them to put on Indian garments throughout festivals and weddings, and when in India, they should eat Indian meals made at house.
This additionally forces me to spend a while higher understanding my very own tradition and why festivals are celebrated. I’m certain if not at this time, as soon as my youngsters are a bit older, they may ask me.
(Facet be aware: I lately interviewed Reena from Hindi by Reena (coming quickly in my Working Mum Knowledge collection). In case you are like me, wanting to show your youngsters Hindi, she has some improbable sources that will help you educate your youngsters, you’ll be able to verify them out right here.)
There are lots of legends about why Diwali is widely known. The one I grew up with was is from the Ramayana, a story from Indian mythology.
Based on this story, Diwali is the celebration of Lord Ram’s return to town of Ayodhya from 14 years of exile after defeating the demon ruler ‘Ravan’ of ‘Lanka’. When Lord Ram was to return, the villagers lit oil lamps on the streets at night time to represent the victory of fine over evil, and welcome him again. The phrase Diwali is derived from the Sanskrit phrase ‘dipavali’, which suggests “row of lights”.
I ought to in all probability try studying the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, two of India’s best epics which have influenced the Hindu mind-set and perception system. The 2 tales are believed to be partially primarily based on historic occasions and are thought of to be “itihasa” in Sanskrit, which suggests historic texts. The third is the Bhagwat Gita.
Maybe I can rediscover them with my youngsters by studying youngsters’s variations. 🙂
Aside from Diwali, household time and my work, I hope to get a while to reset my power.
I really feel that the final 3 months have been a whirlwind as I began by personal journey.
Between freelancing and dealing alone tasks while having the ability to be there extra for my youngsters, is a brand new dynamic that I’m nonetheless engaged on optimising. Though I’m very content material, I do typically really feel like I’m spending a number of time throwing spaghetti on the wall to see what sticks.
I’m studying about ‘pathway pondering’ and setting not possible targets. Apparently it’s simpler to 10x your development than it’s to 2x it. Extra on that later.
I can’t consider we’re on the finish of 2023; I do know it’s going to fly by.
I’m not prepared but for 2024 however I do know I must map it out. I feel I must do some large image pondering.
For now, wishing all of you a beautiful festive season. I hope within the chaos of all of it, you handle to get a while on your self.
Love and peace,
Abha x
