19/10/2025

ON SUNDAY October 19, 2025 theSunday Special II

that is not just about fashion and lifestyle, but about sharing values and stories that connect people. On her social media, she consistently highlights the spirit of light, unity and togetherness, whether through cultural traditions, traditional attire, types of Indian food or simply messages of positivity. It is her way of including everyone in celebrating this beautiful festival. “Every year, I celebrate Deepavali with people from different backgrounds. Last year, I organised a potluck with friends from all over the world who currently live here. Everyone brought their own traditional food. I suddenly realised that many of our dishes are quite similar. Only the use of spices and cooking methods makes them distinctive,” she said. Through these experiences, she has gained a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. She has become more open to blending different elements from various cultures into her fashion, food and daily life, while still holding on to the unique ness of her own heritage. “Deepavali reminds me that beyond the race to the top, what truly matters is compassion and giving. The joy of sharing light, food and time with others brings me back to my roots and keeps me grounded. It’s a beautiful reminder that success feels more meaningful when it’s shared with the people around us,” she said, reflecting on the lessons she has learnt over the years. Come together Raginee Shalesh, along with the trainees and staff at IMC Training Centre for Special Needs, embodies the spirit of Deepavali through community outreach, organising food drives and distributing gifts to those less fortunate. The aim is to extend the festival’s joy beyond her immediate circle and nurture compassion into the broader community. “Deepavali provides a wonderful op portunity to strengthen bonds among family, friends and those in need. It is a time for prayer, feasting and celebration, infused with love, respect, and joy. This occasion not only fosters a sense of com munity but also encourages the practice of unique traditions that help dispel negativity and promote positive change,” said Raginee. The diverse cultural background of children and adults with special needs at IMC Training Centre enriches the celebra tion. Together, they prepare traditional sweets, create vibrant rangoli designs and share Indian cuisine. Under Shalesh’s guidance, this collective experience deep ens their appreciation for the festival’s universal themes of hope and renewal, fostering connections that transcend cultural boundaries. “At home with my family, the ritual of lighting diyas symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, uniting us in our shared values and reminding us to brighten the lives of others,” she said. In a world often focused on individual success, Deepavali serves as a vital re minder of the importance of compassion, generosity and social responsibility. It inspires us to reflect on our roles within the community and to uplift those in need. Shalesh reminds us that there are people who may not have the same opportunities for joy and we should keep them in our hearts during this special time.

Under the light of Deepavali

“Fashion gave me the space to cel ebrate my culture proudly. I’ve always been someone who embraces tradition, whether it is my own or from other com munities. I find great happiness in expe riencing and learning about the diverse cultures and traditions that Malaysia has to offer. I grew up exchanging traditional foods with my neighbours during festive seasons. These childhood experiences inspired me to always learn from and respect every culture,” said Sharwita. Sharing is caring. It also helps build greater knowledge and understanding about Deepavali. Sharwita has a platform

O NE of the most wonderful aspects of festivals and cel ebrations in Malaysia is the spirit of sharing. Regardless of race or religion, everyone participates in their own way in the cel ebration. Whether it is a simple act, such as posting on social media or attending an open house dressed in traditional garments, people across the nation share in the joy of the occasion. In 2006, when Deepavali and Hari Raya Aidilfitri fell on the same day, Malaysians were overjoyed. It was a rare coincidence and we made the most of the double celebration. Today, as everything around us changes rapidly, festivals like Deepavali remind us to return to our roots and embrace tradition. Celebrating the triumph of light over darkness, Deepavali is all about joy, colour and the warmth of togetherness. We may be in a different time and things may not be exactly as they used to be, but the spirit of Deepavali remains the same. For model Sharwita Krishnan, Deep avali has always meant family, tradition and the joy of togetherness. Everything felt so colourful, with new clothes, a bright home and relatives and friends filling the space with joy. Working in fashion, Deepavali also became a reminder of identity and the importance of staying true to oneself while expressing oneself in new ways.

BY HANNEF ESQUANDER

Sharwita … “Deepavali reminds me that beyond the race to the top, what truly matters is compassion and giving.”