The charming French-Indo town of Pondicherry comes alive each year during the festive season of Deepavali, the “Festival of Lights” that celebrates the Mother Goddess in Hindu mythology. Soak in the excitement and colour of the city when you check into Pondicherry accommodation that is centrally located, such as the stylish Hotel Atithi that presents all visitors with an elegant Pondicherry hotel from which to commence exploration of this iconic Indian city. Deepawali, or Diwali, especially, is a time of great celebration and joy, with the festivities starting a week before the actual Diwali, and goes on for a week after. All ages are decked out in their Sunday best of ornate silks and scintillating jewellery. It is a public holiday in the country, with schools and business closed for several days during the Diwali week, so visitors are cautioned to get any supplies not already available at your hotel. Families will come together in droves during this time of celebration and merriment, as they light fireworks, buy new clothes in commemoration of a new chapter of life, and purchase and exchange sweet meats and savoury dishes with family and friends. The streets and store fronts are bedecked in vibrant lights and myriad decorations to convey the sheer joy of this important religious festival in the Hindu calendar.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.