A festival of second chances: When kindness becomes the brightest diya

From Chandigarh’s shelter homes to old-age homes across the tricity and Punjab, NGOs, student groups and volunteers are embracing the spirit of ‘sewa’, making Diwali a celebration of compassion, companionship and belonging.

CHANDIGARH: As the tricity lights up with rows of diyas, colourful lanterns and festive decorations, there is another side to Diwali that often remains away from the spotlight. Beyond the glittering markets of Sector 17, the festive rush of Sector 22 and beautifully decorated homes across Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula, a quieter celebration is taking shape — one built around kindness, inclusion and the spirit of giving.

For many children living in shelter homes and elderly residents of old-age homes, festivals can bring memories of family gatherings, childhood celebrations and loved ones who are no longer around. While the world outside gets busy with shopping, parties and preparations, a simple visit, a box of sweets or someone taking the time to sit and talk can make all the difference.

Across Chandigarh and Punjab, NGOs, social organisations, educational institutions and individual volunteers have been making efforts to ensure that the warmth of Diwali reaches those who may otherwise feel left out of the celebrations.

In Punjab, the idea of sewa has long been associated with community life. Rooted in the spirit of selfless service, it finds expression in people opening their doors, sharing food and extending a helping hand without expecting anything in return. During Diwali, this spirit takes many forms — from organising celebrations in shelter homes to distributing essentials among people in need.

The tricity has witnessed several such initiatives over the years. In Chandigarh, many NGO’s celebrate Diwali with differently abled children at shelter homes, bringing them together for rangoli-making, games, music, refreshments and gifts. The celebration also sees students contributing bedsheets and eatables, turning the occasion into a collective expression of care.

Similarly, students from Panjab University’s Centre for Social Work celebrated Diwali with senior citizens at Akal Old Age Home in Ratwara Sahib, Mohali. Beyond distributing sweets, the students spent time interacting with the residents, listening to their life experiences and sharing songs. Such visits underline how companionship can become as meaningful as material support during festivals.

Ahead of Diwali 2026, the Punjab Governor and UT Administrator, Gulab Chand Kataria visited welfare institutions including Nari Niketan in Sector 26, Ashiana and Snehalaya for Girls in Sector 15, Senior Citizens Home in Sector 15 and Chandi Kusht Ashram in Sector 47. The interactions and distribution of festive sweets brought attention to the importance of ensuring that the spirit of the festival reaches people across different circumstances.

But beyond organised events and festive distributions, the real meaning of such initiatives lies in the human connections they create.

For a child, it could be the excitement of receiving a new set of colours, a favourite sweet or a Diwali gift. For an elderly resident, it could be someone listening patiently to stories of how festivals were celebrated in their childhood. For a volunteer, it could be the realisation that spending a few hours with someone can leave behind memories far more valuable than an expensive celebration.

The need, therefore, is to look beyond one-day celebrations. While gifts, sweets and festive meals bring immediate happiness, regular visits, educational support, emotional companionship and sustained community involvement can make a lasting difference. The spirit of giving should not end when the festive lights come down.

This Diwali, as families across Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula and Punjab gather to celebrate, perhaps the most meaningful invitation is to make room for someone beyond their immediate circle. A visit to an old-age home, a thoughtful contribution to a children’s shelter or simply volunteering a few hours can turn an ordinary festive day into something memorable.

After all, Diwali has always been about the triumph of light over darkness. And sometimes, the brightest light does not come from an elaborate decoration or a beautifully lit home. It comes from a small act of kindness that reminds someone that they are seen, valued and remembered.

Because the true spirit of Diwali is not just in lighting diyas, but in becoming one for someone else.