No Sweets, No Crackers, But Deepavali Excitement Remains

Chennai: Whenever you think of Deepavali, two things immediately come to mind: sweets and crackers. Decades ago, both were relished and enjoyed to the fullest. While sweets and savouries were prepared at home, children and adults looked forward to bursting different kinds of crackers.

In the days leading up to Deepavali, women at home would gather all the ingredients needed for making sweets and savouries, ensuring that everything was ready a few days before the festival. Recipes were handed down through generations and most women were adept at preparing these traditional delicacies. The aroma of freshly made sweets and savouries filled the majority of homes those days, adding to the festive spirit. Cut to 2026, and the scene has changed considerably. Most families now buy sweets and savouries from caterers or shops specialising in these delicacies. With joint families giving way to nuclear households, fewer people are familiar with the recipes their mothers and grandmothers once treasured. Besides, with so many distractions and changing lifestyles, preparing sweets at home is no longer a priority.

More importantly, growing awareness of the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption, particularly diabetes, has changed people's attitude towards such Deepavali treats. Even those in their 30s and 40s are becoming more cautious about indulging in Deepavali sweets. The words "The less sugar, the better" now echo in many households.

The tradition of bursting crackers has also undergone a change. Many families have given up the practice as they are concerned about the noise and air pollution caused by fireworks. There are others who continue to cherish the tradition, eagerly lighting up the night sky with colourful crackers. But watching the dazzling displays has become an integral part of the festival for some including this columnist. While the ways in which we celebrate Deepavali may have changed over the decades, the memories of homemade sweets, the excitement of bursting crackers and the joy of celebrating the festival together remain etched in our minds.