Actor Pankit Thakker, known for his acting in shows like Kabhii Sautan Kabhii Sahelii, Dill Mill Gayye, Bahu Hamari Rajni Kant, Barsatein – Mausam Pyaar Ka, Saru, among others, talks about celebrating Diwali, missing his late parents, and why he believes in an eco-friendly celebration.
Speaking about missing his parents during festivals, Pankit said, “Festivals don’t feel the same without them. The house is still lit, the food is still made, the rituals are still followed, but there’s a chair that stays empty and a silence that stays loud. I still light a diya for them, not out of habit, but out of love. Because some people don’t leave; they just become the light we carry forward.”
Remembering his childhood Diwalis, he shared, “I remember how on every Diwali, my father would light up our entire bungalow. We’d dress up, light the diyas in the garden, and sit on the jhula. People from nearby used to come and appreciate our light decor. But what I actually remember most isn’t the lights. It’s the waiting, just before the first diya was lit. That was the best part. I still wait like that every Diwali. For him, light was something to share.”
On why Diwali celebrations are important, the actor said, “Diwali is important because it reminds us to pause, and spread love and positivity, and choose light over everything dark that the year threw at us.”
Talking about celebrating an eco-friendly Diwali, Pankit added, “I enjoy celebrating an eco-friendly Diwali, and that is not about celebrating less; it is about celebrating better. It is about choosing mankind, choosing light and happiness, and choosing kindness over show-off. When we light earthen diyas, share homemade sweets, decorate with flowers, and spend time with family, we are actually honouring the real spirit of Diwali. The festival was never about show-off. It will always be about warmth, togetherness, and new beginnings for me.”
