On the eve of Diwali celebrations in Goa, there is a unique celebration when the demon effigies of Narkasurs are on display throughout the state. Some are even paraded at competitions and finally at the break of dawn they are burnt to signify the triumph of good over evil. On Diwali, people wear their finest clothes, illuminate their homes with beautiful earthen diyas and rangoli to invite the goddess of prosperity and wealth, Lakshmi.
I'm looking forward to Diwali as a new chapter in my life. 2024 has been a struggle with little truly memorable. Therefore, with Diwali serving as a baseline for a fresh start, I will strive to turn things around and greet 2025 with open arms. Diwali has always been a family event, with everyone helping to decorate the house and prepare traditional foods. I'd love to assist mother and spend most of my time at home. Also, we have two kittens at home, and it is my responsibility to keep them safe and comfortable, especially when people light firecrackers. I hope that everyone would embrace the essence of Diwali and work together to eradicate evil from society.
-Amit Naik aka Waking Grunt, Rapper
Being away from home makes Diwali even more meaningful. This year, for the first time, I’m bringing special sweets from Mumbai, which adds to the excitement. What I cherish most are the little moments—spending time with my mother, savouring her home-cooked meals, and watching my 1-year-old nephew Shaurya grow. These are the moments that make the distance from home worthwhile, reminding me of the true essence of the festival.
-Sainath Uskaikar, director
I'll try to spend more time with my family this Diwali, and put hand in the household work a little more. All these days, I have been busy with work moving around a lot. I will be going to visit my friend's homes and at night lighting some diyas and munching on some traditional Diwali sweets.
-Vaibhav Salgaonkar, Artist
Diwali has always been an exciting time for me, especially when we lived in the Government Quarters, Patto. The thrill of the Narkasur making in the colony really added to the festive spirit. I loved preparing the diyas so that once the Narkasur was burnt, we could light them up and fill the house with warmth. It is all about being with family, exchanging sweets, and meeting friends. Those moments were so much fun. This year, I'm really looking forward to celebrating Diwali by spending time with my family at our ancestral house. As always I’ll be making everything look beautiful as part of the preparations. It's always a joyful time, and I can't wait to create new memories together.
-Samiksha Desai, Actress
This Diwali, as diyas light the way, I celebrate the glow paintings we created, shining bright with creativity. I pledge to nurture children's artistic spark, fostering spaces where imagination and self-expression flourish.
-Sharada Kerkar, Artist
I’ll celebrate Diwali by capturing the festival’s spirit through my lens, drawn to the play of light and shadow that fills every corner of Goa. There’s a magic in how familiar spaces come alive with streets glowing with diyas, homes adorned with intricate rangolis, and skies bursting with vibrant colours. For me, Diwali is a festival of light in every sense, and I’m fascinated by how these moments reflect joy, warmth, and community. Documenting these colourful scenes feels like weaving the festival’s essence into a visual story that celebrates its timeless beauty.
-Shivam Harmalkar, director and photographer