“Fragrance of the fresh gajara tightly woven in her braid
filled the room with a soothing aroma. As I entered a little further in the
room, melodious jhankar of her payal sounded like music to my ears. The giggles
and soft whispering brought me closer to the liveliest group in the otherwise silent,
dimly lit room.
I was mesmerized to see a glittering bindi on her forehead
shining like moonlight. Suddenly she turned around, caught me in eyes. I
shivered but she smiled. I smiled back too. Dressed in an ethnic embellished
lehenga choli she looked divine. As she caressed the hair falling on her face,
her bright red lip color and heena laden hand caught my attention.
She greeted me with a Namaste. I was too happy to respond
back in Hindi after months.
It seemed like I have come to a celebration in India.
Memories of festivities, colors, lights, and togetherness transcended me to a
blissful world.
Slowly and gradually the beats of the drum and lights of
diya interspersed me. It was Diwali celebration tonight at the Groningen
University campus in the Netherlands.
I looked around; everyone was dressed in ethnic Indian attire,
guys with a turban, some in kurta- pajama, girls in salwaar kameez and some in
even a sari.
A small bunch of Indian community at the campus had hosted
this party and all irrespective of their nationality or religion
enthusiastically came forth to celebrate and cheer together. Everyone danced to
the tunes of famous Bollywood music; choir sang Hindi songs and ate mouthwatering
Indian delicacies. "
My younger brother exulted in excitement as he narrated this
to me. It was his first Diwali away from home.
He was proud to say that there is a mini India in every nook
and corner of this world. Our rich vibrant culture and heritage has a special
place in everyone’s heart. Our zestful
spirit of brotherhood enamour one and all and binds every one across the globe
in a special bond nurtured with love just like Lufthansa-TVC which connects all.
