Speckles of light shimmer for horizons. Little kids spin in euphoria, twirling their new sparkly ghagra cholis and salwar kameezes. The warm aroma of cashews and sweets floats through homes. Families reunite, gifts are exchanged and a ubiquitous love fills the air. Celebrating Diwali in India is an experience of its own spectacular kind; and one that I miss so dearly, as I celebrate it from abroad this year.

Here are 10 things I miss the most:

1. The lights, the lights, the lights!!!

Literally every house has some sort of light decorations. It's always so magical to drive down streets and see fairy lights, candle lights and elaborate designs- it puts everyone in such a festive spirit.

2. Rangoli!

I remember carelessly pouring out too much sand and messing up my grandmother's meticulously crafted Rangoli patterns. But every time I would horrendously mess up her designs, she would simply smile and encourage me to continue my art. Because it wasn't the Rangoli that mattered, it was the time spent with family that was truly cherished.

3. Neighbors stopping by, all day.

Diwali has this remarkable power to foster relationships- I recall meeting new and random people the entirety of the day of Diwali. People would casually stroll around the neighborhood to give dry fruits and sweets to neighbors. My family, too, would take these walks, inquire about eachother's health and wellbeing and distribute gifts. It was always a day that left you inspired by making new connections.

4. Cleaning

Every year, as Diwali approached, my family always went a voracious house cleaning spree. Cluttered desks transformed into neatly organized spaces, window panes were meticulously dusted, the floors were swept and mopped until the house was tangibly squeaky clean. It's always been a cathartic cleanse :) I hope to do the same with my dorm this year, after months of mess accumulation.

5. New clothes!

There's nothing that beats the feeling of trying on a new salwar kameez; admiring its sparkles and testing its twirl-ability. It's so exciting and self-affirming :)

6. Diwali deals

Legitimately- almost ALL stores have some sort of deal/sale happening during this season. Those shoes you've been eyeing at the mall? Buy one, get one free! Electronics? 50% off! It's a fabulous time of the year.

7. Fireworks

Though I recognize, from personal experience, how much these fireworks can pollute the air-there's always something so mesmerizing to watch fireworks. I used to be so scared to be near them, but eventually, with the help of our aunts and uncles, we would all unleash our inner dare-devils and light fireworks in our neighborhoods.

8. Family time

In my 4 years spent in India, I witnessed how a simple occasion like Diwali could unite an entire family. Evenings were spent in giggling with cousins, listening and sharing stories with grandparents and eating delicious food.

So as this year's Diwali commences, I use this time as an opportunity to reminisce on my fond times back in India- the country that shimmers and glitters on this auspicious night. I think of my family and friends, and I wish them a wonderful year filled with joy, happiness and peace! Happy Diwali!