Newlyweds Celebrate First Deepavali With Cultural Fusion In Sarawak

KUCHING, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- This year’s Deepavali celebration was not just another festival for Laura Zeeta Pellane, from Padawan - it marked her very first as a newlywed, and she’s experiencing the festival of lights in a way that’s entirely new.

Married to V. Janagaraj, 24, in August, Laura, 23, found herself far from her family in Kampung Sira, now celebrating in the warmth of her husband’s village in Kuching.

The shift from celebrating familiar holidays like Gawai and Christmas to Deepavali in her husband’s home was a whirlwind of emotions.

“It’s a completely new experience for me. For the first time, I’m celebrating in a different culture, surrounded by my husband’s family, and it’s so special,” she said when met after prayers at the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple here today.

But what truly sets this celebration apart isn’t just the setting, but the fusion of cultures. Janagaraj, a mix of Indian and Bidayuh heritage, ensures their Deepavali feast blends the best of both worlds. Guests are treated to a delicious mix of traditional Indian curries and rich Bidayuh chicken dishes like ayam pansuh.

For Janagaraj, Deepavali in Sarawak takes on a deeper meaning. As a minority in the state, sharing his heritage with his wife and community feels all the more precious.

“We may not have a public holiday like in Peninsular Malaysia, but the spirit of the festival is alive and well here. Having my wife experience the traditions with me makes it all the more meaningful,.” he said.

Janagaraj didn’t just help with the cooking - he also took part in the decorations. Together, he and Laura decorated their home with colourful kolam and glowing oil lamps, making their celebration even more memorable.

Meanwhile, 21-year-old teacher trainee S. Aishwarrya, who’s celebrating Deepavali for the first time in Sarawak, admits that the experience is unlike any other.

“It’s exciting, but it’s a little strange,” she said, recalling how back in Penang, the whole town would be on holiday for Deepavali.

“Here, it’s still a regular workday. It would be even more meaningful if it was a public holiday in Sarawak,” she said.

-- BERNAMA