Celebrating Diwali: Stories that illuminate and inspire
As autumn arrives, Diwali, the Festival of Lights, reminds us of the beauty of new beginnings, the triumph of light over darkness, and the power of storytelling to connect us to our roots.
We’re celebrating the season by highlighting books and stories that capture the spirit of Diwali, reflections on home, culture, and renewal that bring both comfort and illumination.
To curate this special edition of Cold Tea Reads, we invited two storytellers who embody this spirit in their work and lives: Prakruti Maniar, Founder and Storyteller at Purple Pencil Project, and Falguni Lakhani Adams, an Emmy and Peabody Award–winning Executive Producer and nonfiction storyteller.
Together, they share the books they love, the traditions that keep them grounded, and what this festival means to them.
See also: WATCHLIST: 12 films and shows that Celebrate Filipino American stories for Filipino American History Month
Cold Tea Reads: Stories that capture the spirit of Diwali and celebrate renewal
Yagnaseni by Pratibha Ray
A reimagining of the Mahabharata through the eyes of Draupadi, this retelling brings feminine strength and voice to one of India’s most iconic epics.
“Between Yagnaseni and The Palace of Illusions, I preferred Yagnaseni more,” shares Prakruti Maniar.
The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston
A tender and time-bending story about love, grief, and second chances. For Prakruti, it’s the perfect feel-good escape amid life’s chaos. “For a nice light read, and I need that to beat the office blues.”
The Songs of Our People by Anurag Banerjee
A rich collection capturing the voices and traditions of Khasi musicians, celebrating Northeast India’s cultural diversity through rhythm and story.
Maniar describes it as “a stunning collection of Khasi musicians, and I enjoy exploring the different Indian cultures.”
Laxmi’s Diwali Dream…
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