‘The gift of time is what matters’

Sunil Shetty

“Diwali time is family time. It’s the time to meet family, spend a lot of time with them, play cards and music, eat delectable food and be in a festive mood. I celebrate Diwali with my family. I like dropping in on friends and doing pujas. It’s one occasion when I do not want to miss out on meeting the entire family.

Laxmi puja is an annual ritual for me. After the puja it’s time to give bonuses and distribute sweets to my staff and also to meet their families too.

Playing cards is on. The annual Diwali cleaning is an absolute must whether it’s my store or my office.

I do send gifts but it is usually to family and a few people who matter to me. But more than receiving or giving a material gift, it is the gift of time that counts. Greeting people with warmth is important. I grew up burning crackers as a child yes but now, like most people, I have become very conscious that I should not contribute to the pollution so burning crackers is out of the window. But I do enjoy watching colourful fireworks if done in the right way with minimum pollution. For me, every Diwali party so far has been the best because it brings my family members, my friends and kids together. There is music, food and a game of cards – the works. Diwali brings a new wave of hope and that's what everyone wishes for.

My Diwali message to my fans: I wish you a very happy Diwali and a very happy new year too. A new beginning, new hope and happier times. I also wish you a safe pollution-free Diwali. For the sake of our lovely pets too – they are our best friends – let’s have a noise-free and a pollution-free Diwali.”