From Diwali to Chhath Puja: How Food and Festivals Bring India Together

NEW DELHI: India’s festive season continues to bring families and communities together through traditions, food and shared celebrations. From Diwali gatherings to Chhath Puja rituals, festivals remain an important part of the country’s cultural identity.

The significance of festivals often extends beyond religious observances. They provide opportunities for people to reconnect with relatives, meet neighbours and preserve customs passed down through generations.

Food plays a central role in these celebrations. During Diwali, families prepare sweets and savoury snacks, exchange gifts and invite friends and relatives for meals. Traditional delicacies are often associated with memories of childhood and family gatherings.

Chhath Puja, celebrated with particular devotion in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh and parts of Nepal, has its own distinctive food traditions. Thekua, a traditional sweet prepared from wheat flour and jaggery or sugar, is closely associated with the festival.

The preparation of festive food frequently involves several members of a family. Such activities create opportunities for younger generations to learn recipes and understand the cultural significance of particular dishes.

The diversity of India’s celebrations also reflects the country’s regional traditions. Different communities follow distinctive customs, prepare local dishes and organise ceremonies according to their cultural practices.

For many people, festivals are also occasions to share food with neighbours and those in need. Community gatherings, charitable activities and collective celebrations help strengthen social connections.

In urban areas, changing lifestyles have influenced how people celebrate. While traditional customs continue to remain important, some families are also choosing smaller gatherings, restaurant meals or customised festive menus.

Despite these changes, the underlying emphasis on togetherness remains strong.

Festivals such as Diwali and Chhath Puja demonstrate how food, family traditions and community participation continue to connect people across generations and regions of India.