Diwali

This brings us to Diwali. It is otherwise known as the festival of lights and is one of the most important days for Hindu’s. Preparations begin days before hand with the baking of many different types of biscuits (really yummy ones!!!) We tried to help out but I think we were hindering more than helping most of the time. I was worrying about what to wear on the day when Shailen’s Aunt (Toeki Kaki) and Yaksha gave me a beautiful Punjabi to wear as well as matching bracelets, necklace, earings and Bindi so I was sorted.

We woke up early and went around to the house for prayers. I wasn’t too sure what was going on but they explained to me what was happening at each point and it was nice to take part. After prayers it was more preparing as plates are made with biscuits and sweets to give to guests as they visit on the day.

The white Indian :)

Shailen, his Dad and Aaji

Sanesh (Shailen's cousin), Yaksha (his wife) and baby Xavara.

The boys - Nishal (shailen's cousin), Shailen, his Dad and Rajen Kaka.

As Diwali is a religious day everyone fasts. We had a late lunch and then went to visit some friends of Shailen’s Dad’s. Then it was back for the lighting of the lamps as the sun is setting. Although we only had one ‘main’ meal, we were constantly snacking so didn’t feel hungry. That night they had fireworks. Everyone has fireworks and it is crazy to see the whole town lit up. The ones that we had were huge and LOUD! We actually had to cover our ears as they went off. There is no way that these fireworks would be legal in NZ so it was quite a sight to see. It was then off to bed after a tiring day.

The boys enjoying the fireworks.

It was a really special day overall and I am glad that we got to spend it with Shailen’s family. It will defiantly be remembered with fondness.

The last two days in Durban spent visiting family and saying goodbye to everyone. It was sad to leave we had some great times in Durban so thank you to everyone!

We stayed with Kay for most of that week and even though we didn’t see as much of her as we would liked we really enjoyed ourselves. So Thank You! J
On the Monday we left for Cape Town. There were four of us – Me, Shailen, His Dad and Ravesh Mama. We were going to take a couple of days to drive down via the Garden Route which is a really pretty drive. Our plans for leaving at 6am in the morning didn’t really happen but at 12 noon we said goodbye to Durban.