LSN News › India

Politics · India Bureau

Sonia Gandhi recalls childhood Diwali festivities at Indira's residence

The Congress president reflected on her memories of Diwali celebrations at the home of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, recalling the warm ambiance created by traditional earthen lamps. She highlighted the blend of Kashmiri cuisine and Delhi's traditional fireworks that marked those festive occasions.

LSN India · 8 November 2026

Sonia Gandhi recalls childhood Diwali festivities at Indira's residence

Sonia Gandhi recently shared nostalgic recollections of Diwali celebrations held at the residence of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, painting a vivid picture of the festival's grandeur during her earlier years.

According to Gandhi's account, the entire household would be illuminated with diyas, or earthen lamps, during the festival season, creating a traditional and warm atmosphere throughout the premises. The celebrations were marked by a distinctive culinary offering that blended Kashmiri delicacies with the festive spirit of the occasion.

Gandhi also reminisced about the presence of phuljhadis, traditional fireworks associated with Old Delhi's Diwali traditions, which formed part of the festivities at the former Prime Minister's home. The recollection underscored the cultural significance and personal meaning attached to the festival celebrations within the household.

These memories reflect a blend of regional Indian traditions brought together during the national festival, highlighting how Diwali celebrations were observed within prominent political households. The reflections offer an intimate glimpse into the personal and cultural dimensions of life at the residence of a former head of government.