Diwali is about light, courage and gratitude: Saanya Iyer

For actor Saanya Iyer, Diwali has evolved into a festi val of and meaning. “As kids, bursting crackers felt like the biggest celebration, but not anymore” she recalls. “Now, I find joy in lighting diyas around the house. It’s grounding — you’re just in the moment, not thinking about anything else.,” she says.

Diwali today is family-centred for Saan ya. “We play indoor games, light diyas to gether, and eat lots of food. I also love see ing the whole street lit up for the festival,” she adds. Now, for Saanya the festi val’s meaning goes be yond rituals. “Most peo ple see Diwali as the victory of good over evil, but I see it through Sita’s perspec tive — her courage and sacrifice,” she says.

Growing up in a middle-class home, she tells us, “We had finan cial restraints, so new clothes weren’t a priority.” But the one thing she loves are sweets. “Homemade shavige payasa (semi ya kheer) is my favourite — especially when it’s cold the next day!” she laughs. For her, Diwali is “a reminder to pause, light up your home, and your heart.”