Diwali isn’t just lighting up our homes. It is also a time to appreciate all the people (and things) that make our world so much brighter. Amidst the festive fervour, these Kolkatans pay tribute to all those who illuminate their lives.
Despite having lost her three years ago, Sujoy Prasad Chatterjee’s mother Sucheta continues to be the guiding light for him Courtesy Sujoy Prasad Chatterjee
For multidisciplinary artiste Sujoy Prasad Chatterjee, the brightest presence in his life is his mother, Sucheta. “Even though I lost her three years ago, she continues to motivate me in times of darkness and crisis. Diwali isn’t just about the diyas we light, but the people who engulf us with love and respect. Despite her not physically being with me, she still is the light of my life,” he beamed.
Indrajit Lahiri considers his son, (left) Ahan to be the greatest gift in his life Courtesy Indrajit Lahiri
Food vlogger Indrajit Lahiri, who is the face of Foodka, considers his son, Ahan to be his light. “‘Ahan’ literally means the first ray of light, and when he came into this world, it really brightened our life up. Just like how we don’t expect anything from life, I have no expectations from Ahan. But this cute 5’6-tall ray of light is my reason for living,” he said smiling.
As a pet parent, actress Solanki Roy's dog is also the centre of her universe Courtesy Solanki Roy
The relationship between children and parents is definitely special, and actress Solanki Roy considers herself lucky to have experienced the best of both worlds. “As I grow older, I realise how my parents have shaped my vision and understanding, by showing me the light in the darkest of tunnels. As a pet parent, my dog is also the centre of my universe. She came to me during a very dark phase, but filled my life with light so effortlessly! I really don't know how I would have come out of that phase without her,” reminisced Solanki.
For Meghdut Roy Chowdhury, chief innovation officer and executive director of Techno India Group and founder of Make Calcutta Relevant Again, his wife, Pauline Laravoire, radiates light every day Courtesy Meghdut Roy Chowdhury
Love takes several beautiful shapes. For Meghdut Roy Chowdhury, chief innovation officer and executive director of Techno India Group and founder of Make Calcutta Relevant Again, his wife, Pauline Laravoire, radiates light every day. “Pauline brings warmth, resilience, and a spark of joy that makes each day brighter,” he said, adding that their happiness has quadrupled ever since she moved to Kolkata from Paris to work together. “She has this gift — the way she laughs at my worst jokes, while knowing exactly when I need a quiet moment or a warm hug. This Diwali feels extra special because having her hand in mine makes our home glow with something far more precious than any festival light. In her, I've found not just love, but my life's greatest blessing,” he added.
Nil derives joy from the collection of people he surrounds himself with. He is pictured here, enjoying a dhunuchi naach at his sister Oiendrila Ray Kapur’s Durga Puja this year Courtesy Navonil Das
Fashion designer Navonil Das aka Nil of Dev R Nil believes that it is the collective amalgamation of all many aspects that creates true happiness. “It’s very hard for me to pinpoint any singular person or thing. I am a product of the collective energy that surrounds me — my pillars, my friends, my family, and even my lovers past, present and continuous… My light comes from the continuous interactions, discussions, arguments, readings and silent moments spent with them. It is all about the people I surround myself with,” he said.
Anupam Roy is known to share frequent poetry recommendations on Instagram Courtesy Anupam Roy
And lastly, for musician Anupam Roy, light doesn’t come from a person, but the art form that has sustained him throughout his life. “In my darkest hours, I seek refuge in poetry. It helps me emotionally. Whenever I go through a writing block, reading poetry often helps me create new pathways, and shows new ways of expressing myself,” the composer signed off.
My Kolkata wishes you all a Happy Diwali!
