Diwali is a time for lights, laughter and togetherness. However, between cleaning the house, shopping, planning outfits, preparing food and entertaining guests, the festive season can sometimes feel more like a job than a celebration. With growing expectations around themed parties, elaborate decorations and picture-perfect gatherings, many people find themselves struggling to balance modern celebrations with traditional family customs. (Also read: Diwali skincare guide: Doctor shares how to choose the right treatments for your skin and hair concerns )
“Diwali is supposed to be about lights, laughter and togetherness. She points out that celebrations have evolved over the years, with festivities often beginning weeks in advance through themed parties, Diwali get-togethers, DIY celebrations and elaborate home decorations. At the same time, families may feel the pressure to keep older traditions alive, from annual cleaning rituals and preparing the home for guests to following family customs. Balancing these expectations with newer ways of celebrating can become overwhelming. “As a therapist , I often see how the need to meet everyone’s expectations can take away from enjoying an experience. Aashka reminds people that it does not feel the same for everyone While the festive season is often associated with happiness. “It is also worth remembering that Diwali isn’t a time for everyone. Aashka encourages people to move away from the pressure of hosting elaborate celebrations or meeting every expectation.
But let’s be honest, between cleaning the house from top to bottom, shopping, planning outfits , preparing food and entertaining guests, the festive season can sometimes feel like a job!” says Aashka. “Hosting a party has almost become an event in itself, where the food, ambience, décor and even the smallest details need to come perfectly,” she explains. When we start worrying about how the celebration looks rather than how it feels, stress, irritability and emotional exhaustion can creep in,” says Aashka. Financial pressures, family disagreements, loneliness or missing loved ones can make the festive season emotionally challenging,” she says. “Perhaps we need to remind ourselves that Diwali is not a competition and nobody is handing out awards for the decorated home or the most elaborate party!” she concludes.
