This past weekend, I had the joy of attending the annual Diwali Pahat celebration at Prashant and Sheetal Garud’s home. While it was my fourth year participating, Prashant and Sheetal have been hosting this unique Diwali morning gathering for eight years now. Over time, this event has grown from a simple get-together into a cherished tradition, uniting friends and family in a beautiful morning filled with Marathi songs, tabla rhythms, and a profound sense of community.

This year, as always, the lineup of performances and dedication to detail made the morning unforgettable. One of the most moving moments for me was hearing Narayana Nama. This song, a favorite of my parents, brought back memories of family celebrations and a feeling of connection to those who taught me the value of tradition.

Diwali Pahat is a time-honored Maharashtrian tradition, especially beloved in cities like Pune. It captures the freshness of Diwali mornings, when the air is filled with the fragrance of mogra flowers, the soft glow of oil lamps, and, for those in India, the lingering scent of firecrackers from the previous night’s festivities. The ambiance of this event took me back to those mornings – with traditional attire, early morning melodies, and delicious Diwali treats, it was as close as one can get to the essence of Diwali in Maharashtra, thousands of miles from home.

The Garuds have fostered an impressive community of talent. Shivji, who graces us every year with his masterful tabla rhythms, was joined this time by Prashant and Sheetal’s son, Sanay, whose skill and poise have blossomed over the years. Watching Sanay evolve from a beginner to a true tabla maestro has been a privilege. Together, they created an enchanting musical experience, with Sanay playing tirelessly for an impressive three hours, adding depth and energy to the morning’s performances. On vocals, Madhura and Asawari brought the spirit of Marathi music to life with remarkable voice quality and endurance, singing almost continuously for three hours. Their voices resonated throughout, filling the morning with warmth and devotion. Tejas, a new addition known for his work in Marathi cinema, graced us with his keyboard playing. His melodies added a warm, nostalgic touch, becoming the glue that completed the ensemble. Abhayji expertly managed the sound system, ensuring we could all hear the singers and musicians up close.

At the heart of the event’s flow was Dr. Sagar Garud, our talented compere, who elevated the experience through his storytelling. Sagar didn’t simply introduce songs; he wove stories around them, sharing fascinating trivia about the music, its composers, and singers. His stories added a rich layer of appreciation, deepening our connection to each piece. We couldn’t help but stay engaged, eager to hear his next tale and not wanting to miss a single word. He kept us so captivated that not a single phone appeared between songs – we were all on the edge of our seats, waiting for the next story or hidden gem he’d reveal. Sagar’s presence brought an irreplaceable charm to the morning, transforming the event into more than just a concert – it became a journey through the history and soul of each song.

What makes this gathering so special is the dedication Prashant and Sheetal pour into it. Organizing an event of this scale requires months of planning, coordination, and preparation. For three months, they spend countless hours arranging schedules, managing rehearsals, and preparing an atmosphere that invites everyone to feel at home. They put their heart and soul into every detail – from the flowers and decor that evoke a Diwali morning in Maharashtra, to the thoughtfully prepared food that reminds us of home-cooked festival meals. Their commitment and hard work create a space where everyone can feel part of a tradition, building connections that go beyond just music and festivities.

Each year, Diwali Pahat somehow feels even more enriching than the last, a testament to Sheetal and Prashant’s devotion to preserving and sharing these cultural roots. This celebration is not only a tribute to the music and traditions of Maharashtra but a reminder of the bonds that connect us to each other and to the memories that shape who we are.

To Sheetal and Prashant– thank you for your dedication, warmth, and love for tradition. This event is more than just a celebration; it’s a shared experience that deepens our connection to our roots and to one another. Diwali Pahat has become a treasured gathering that we look forward to each year, reminding us of the beauty of music, culture, and community.

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