Chandni Chowk Crackers & Kashmiri Feasts: Sonia, Priyanka Recall Diwali with Rajiv Gandhi
Sonia and Priyanka Gandhi share nostalgic memories of Diwali celebrations, from Chandni Chowk cracker shopping to traditional Kashmiri food.
In a touching glimpse into their private family life, Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and her daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra recently shared heartfelt memories of how Diwali was celebrated in their household with the late former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Through a conversation shared on social media, the two revisited the traditions, the sights, and the sounds that defined their festive seasons years ago.
A Home Lit by Traditional Diyas
Sonia Gandhi spoke with deep affection about the beauty of those early celebrations, noting that Diwali was always a special time for the family. Long before the era of ubiquitous electric fairy lights, the family home was transformed into a luminous spectacle using traditional earthen lamps.
She recalled how diyas were placed meticulously across the property—lining the rooftops, the verandas, the pathways, and even around the pond. A central part of their ritual involved a Ganesh idol placed at the entrance of the house, where the very first lamp of the festival was lit. Sonia mentioned that this particular idol remains with her at her residence to this day.
The Thrill of Old Delhi Shopping
One of the most vivid memories shared by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was the excitement of shopping for firecrackers. She recalled how her father, Rajiv Gandhi, would take them on trips to the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi to pick out their crackers.
Sonia Gandhi added that the family occasionally got "carried away" with the variety of fireworks they purchased. While Sonia admitted she had a preference for the gentle glow of phuljhadis (sparklers) over the louder, noisier explosions, the overall excitement of the season remained a highlight of their childhood.
Kashmiri Flavors and Clear Blue Skies
Beyond the lights and noise, the sensory experiences of the festival left a lasting impression. Sonia Gandhi reminisced about the atmospheric beauty of the time, specifically mentioning the clear blue skies that served as a backdrop to the festivities—a sight she noted is rarely seen now.
The celebrations were also defined by a specific culinary tradition. The family enjoyed traditional Kashmiri cuisine and a special sweet rice preparation during the festivals. In a nod to the continuity of their heritage, Sonia revealed that this sweet rice is a dish the family still prepares today.
Gatherings of All Walks of Life
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra highlighted that the festive spirit extended beyond the immediate family. She recalled how both Holi and Diwali were celebrated with immense enthusiasm, with the family garden becoming a meeting point for people from all different walks of life, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
"Revisiting my early memories of celebrating Diwali - the traditions, the festivities and the little moments that made it so special...Wishing everyone a Happy Diwali," Sonia Gandhi shared on Instagram.