ALOR STAR: Deepavali is more than a festival as it also serves as a bridge uniting people of different cultures and faiths.
For S. Nagamah, 37, and her family in Simpang Empat, Alor Star, Deepavali has grown beyond tradition, becoming a cherished connection that unites her family's diverse backgrounds.
Nagamah and her husband, Tarwinder Singh, 37, a Sikh from India working in real estate, celebrate Deepavali as a time to come together, embracing their differences and shared values.
Reflecting on her 12-year marriage, Nagamah, a kindergarten teacher, shared how her family has grown to respect, understand and embrace each other's ways.
"Before, I thought Sikhs and Tamils weren't all that different.
"After marriage, I saw just how varied our backgrounds are. But we focus on the good, respecting each other's ways.
"It's about love, not hate, and that makes everything better."
She said this at Deepavali celebrations at her home, alongside her husband, daughter Jaspreet Kaur, 11, and family and friends.
Nagamah, who is of Chinese and Indian descent, said their differences emerged in religious practices, prayer customs, greetings and food.
"Now we understand each other's beliefs better, and I feel it's brought us peace. It's a testament to tolerance and understanding.
"Deepavali, however, stands apart. It's the uniting festival, celebrated in India and here as well.
"Vaisakhi is special to Sikhs and Thaipusam to Tamils, but Deepavali belongs to everyone."
Tarwinder, who has lived in Malaysia since 2010, said Deepavali here felt unique, with the celebration being more vibrant and inclusive than in India.
"In India, you rarely see other communities, like Chinese and Malays, celebrating Deepavali.
"But here, it's common, and something I appreciate about Malaysia.
"The temples here are more colourful, the architecture distinct in ways I can't quite put into words."
He was also struck by how deeply Indians in Malaysia held onto to their cultural festivals such as Deepavali, even after generations living in Malaysia.
He credited Malaysia's strong multiracial and multicultural fabric for creating such harmony, rooted in tolerance, understanding and unity.
"That's what makes Malaysia special compared with other places. The unity here is strong, and I've loved living here for over a decade."