Digital Diwali: How to Celebrate Virtually with Loved Ones

There’s something about Diwali evenings—the glow of diyas, the chatter of cousins, the smell of fresh ladoos—that makes distance feel even harder. And honestly, celebrating through a screen? It used to sound cold, almost disrespectful to tradition. But the last few years have shown us something quietly beautiful: even online, love finds a way. If we choose to make it warm.

The Awkward Start: “Can You Hear Me?” Festival Edition

Let’s be real—our first attempt at an online Diwali probably started with someone yelling, “Mic on karo!” or that one uncle frozen mid-smile on the screen. It felt strange. No fireworks, no touching feet, no prasad plate being passed around.

But slowly, we learned. We stopped treating it like a compromise and started owning it. Because Diwali isn't just about being in the same room—it's about feeling connected. Even if it's through Wi-Fi.

Virtual Aarti & Family Calls: Old Rituals, New Style

We did something funny last year—we scheduled a “family aarti” on Zoom. Everyone showed up in traditional clothes (well, except my cousin who wore kurta on top and shorts below 😂). The aarti wasn’t perfect; someone sang offbeat, someone’s diya blew out from a ceiling fan. But I swear, in that moment, it felt like home.

Pro tip? Ask everyone to light a diya at the exact same time. Watching 10 little flames on screen flicker in unison… it's unexpectedly emotional.

Digital Gifting: From Amazon to Voice Notes

Gone are the days of passing mithai ka dabba. Now it’s Amazon vouchers, Swiggy surprise deliveries, or even something as simple as a heartfelt voice note. Trust me, a two-minute audio saying “Miss you yaar, Diwali is incomplete without you” hits harder than any sweet box.

For the creative ones, e-greeting cards, Canva-made collages, or even a shared Google Photos album of past Diwalis can make everyone tear up (don’t deny it 🥲).

Online Games & Antakshari Nights

A family that plays online Ludo together… still fights the same way. Distance doesn’t change that. We once had a virtual Tambola night where the host kept announcing wrong numbers, and my aunt accused the system of being “fixed.” Classic Diwali energy.

Other ideas?

• Skribbl (online Pictionary) — Guessing “rangoli” from a banana-looking doodle is hilarious.
• Antakshari on video call — Lag, chaos, and pure nostalgia.

Virtual Dinner – Yes, It Works

You know what surprised me the most? Eating together on video. Sounds silly, right? But when everyone sits with their plate—kaju katli, poori, chole—and someone starts talking about Grandma’s recipes… it suddenly feels like those noisy, overcrowded Diwali nights again.

If everyone cooks the same dish (like paneer or halwa) and shares the results, you get laughter + food criticism + memories. Perfect combo.

Sharing Light, Even Through Screens

Here’s the thing: Diwali isn’t about grand celebrations. It’s about presence—emotional presence. Even if we’re miles apart, a simple video call saying “I remember our old Diwalis” can light up someone’s heart more than 100 diyas.

Screens may separate us, but intentions don’t.

So, Digital Diwali? It’s Not a Backup Plan

It’s just a different chapter in the same story. One day we’ll gather again, in person, bursting crackers and laughing at burnt pakoras. But until then, virtual hugs, pixelated smiles, and DIY digital traditions will carry us through.

Because no matter the medium—call, chat, or camera—Diwali is still about showing up for each other. 
And that… we can do from anywhere. 💛🪔