On the cards: Gearing up for Diwali

NEW DELHI: We''re well into the sillyseason. It''s time to splurge on designer diyas and dry fruit packs, on biscuitboxes and mass-made mithais. Time also to meet family and friendsfor those yearly rounds of teen-patti, all part of the Diwali spirit: Kuchlagaoge nahin to paoge kaise — no loss, no gain!"If Holi isabout colours and bhang, Diwali is about diyas and cards," says Richa Puri, amarketing executive. "Having two bhang pakoras doesn''t give you a high, the ideaof having it does. Similarly, playing cards with your cousins and losing Rs 200is not about gambling, it''s about having fun."The middle classDilliwala seems to be in sync with Richa. A good number of card parties are lowstake, family affairs. Women are as involved as men. The sessions begin soonafter Dussehra and reach a peak after Karva Chauth. The atmosphere varies withthe stakes. The higher the stakes, the more serious the game gets: greenhornsare not welcome; children are not visible; snacks are not a priority."Higher stake card sessions are quite common," says Anuradha Kumar,a hotel executive. A huge dinner, everyone takes back a Diwali gift and theenthusiasts are ready to meet again the night after. Same time, anotherplace.