Prachi Tehlan: I loved painting diyas during Diwali competitions in school

For Prachi Tehlan, Diwali has always been about celebrating the festival with her loved ones. The actress tells us that due to her shoot schedule it is rare that she is in Delhi for long durations, but she is looking forward to celebrating in the capital, this year. “For me, Diwali is all about being home, spending time with my loved ones and gorging on the amazing food and sweets that come with the celebration. I’m excited about visiting family and friends here and exchanging gifts. There’s something magical about the lights, the togetherness, and the joy that Diwali brings to everyone’s hearts,” says the Diya Aur Baati Hum actress.
‘I’ve moved to eco-friendly festivities’
Sharing anecdotes from her childhood, Prachi says, “One of my fondest childhood memories is packaging Diwali gifts. As a child, I used to love bursting firecrackers with my cousins, but I’ve embraced eco-friendly celebrations now. Growing up, I remember the whole family getting together to clean the house, decorate it with diyas and lights, and prepare sweets. My mom used to prepare the most delicious matar paneer with poori and dahi bhalla, gulab jamun and laddoos. I loved it all.”

‘As a child, Diwali was all about fam-time’
Posing with handpainted diyas at Sarojini market, Prachi tells us that she loved painting diyas during Diwali competitions in school. “I remember winning one of those competitions and being so proud of my designs. The teachers would encourage us to use those same diyas at home. As a child, Diwali was all about chhutti, spending time with cousins and enjoying the fireworks. But over time, I’ve come to appreciate the deeper significance of the festival,” she says.