TOI: Celebs share their thots on festival-Manav

There is this wonderful feeling of warmth and happiness around as everyone is gearing up for Diwali celebrations, a festival of colors, sweets, love and much more. And while the celebrations are on, our celebs too share their thoughts on how Diwali symbolize a myriad sparkles signifying festivities.

Mona Thiba, actor After a long time, I am getting to spend Diwali along with my relatives who have come home this year. So, the Dhanteras has been spent well. I gifted myself a sparkling solitaire. I helped my mom preparing the farsaan and mithai. Crackers are a strict no no to me so I am indulging in shopping this Diwali.

Hitu Kanodia, actor I am celebrating the festival this time in Gandhinagar along with my family. Diwali as a festival has changed quite a lot. As kids, we used to burst crackers. But now, we have become more responsible and are celebrating a quiet and warm Diwali. So we will be rather listening to the sound of laughter than the sound of crackers.

Manav Gohil, actor As a kid, Diwali was a hot favorite with me because it was the only festival when my father would buy me presents and elders would chip in with money! I was also fond of crackers back then. I enjoy watching all the buildings lit up so beautifully and appreciate the fact that there is less traffic on the roads and people spend quality time with their families during the festival.

Ajitesh Argal, Cricketer I always take time out to be with my family in Bhopal during Diwali, and it's no different this year. The visual spectacle and the joys that the festival provides are unmatched. I also like the fact that there is growing awareness about going green during Diwali.

Tanvi Vyas, actor For me, Diwali is the event of the year and whether it's new clothes, lights, food or family gatherings, I love everything associated with it. This is the first time that I won't be with my family during Diwali but I am planning to celebrate it in a special way with friends in Mumbai. I am excited about doing Laxmi puja, all on my own, and plan to surprise friends by cooking something special for them! One change that I really like is that the use of noisy firecrackers have gone down significantly in recent times.

Shrenu Parikh, actor For me, Diwali has always been about being at my maternal uncle's place, enjoying a great vacation with yummy food. I have many fond memories associated with the festival but this time, I am going to spend the day working. However, I am not complaining because working on the day of Laxmi puja is considered to be auspicious. Over the years, the way Diwali is celebrated has evolved and we can see trends like throwing card parties and giving innovative gifts on the rise. However, change is the only constant element and it remains one of my favorite festivals.