Every year, as Diwali approaches, the air begins to hum with excitement- we hang twinkling lights on our balconies, decorate entrances with diyas, and spend hours choosing the perfect decor. The festival of lights is, after all, about renewal- a chance to begin again, surrounded by brightness and joy.

But amidst all that sparkle, I often notice something that dims the glow. The roads right outside these decorated homes are still lined with plastic wrappers. There’s waste floating on rivers and piles of discarded packaging near every market. We remember to light up our homes, but we forget to extend the same care to the world just beyond our doors. 

That thought often takes me back to a small but defining moment. I was in seventh standard, sitting with my friends during recess, when we took a simple pledge- not to spread litter in any public place. I remember wondering: if I can’t keep my school grounds clean, how will I treat my planet in the future? That moment became my first step towards environmental consciousness, and I’ve kept that promise ever since. Over the years, that small act of awareness grew into a deeper commitment to sustainability. I began to understand that mindful choices, however small, can create a big impact. 

As I grew older and travelled more, I started noticing how much plastic surrounded us- in cities, streets, and even in places meant to be untouched by pollution. It was overwhelming. Moving from a busy city to a quiet hilly town after marriage changed my perspective completely. The greenery and fresh air made me realize how much we have sacrificed in the name of development. The contrast was stark, and it reminded me that we need to protect what’s left- not through drastic changes overnight, but by taking one thoughtful step at a time. 

I began with small, simple swaps:

• Carrying cloth bags for groceries
• Replacing plastic bottles with steel ones
• Composting kitchen waste and using the organic compost for plants
• Packing home-cooked meals instead of buying packaged food

Each change felt empowering. Beyond reducing waste, it made me feel more connected to my choices and the world around me. 

But sustainability isn’t always easy. It takes time to unlearn habits we’ve built around convenience. Plastic has become so ingrained in our lives that sometimes I forget my reusable bag or feel guilty about ordering takeout in plastic containers. Over time, I learned to forgive myself. Sustainability is about persistence, not perfection.

I have also come to see that sustainability isn’t just about the planet; it’s about people, too. Choosing eco-friendly products often supports artisans, rural women, and small businesses working to build a better future. Every rupee we spend is a vote for the kind of world we want to live in.

Recently, while working with Saathi, a sustainable brand that creates menstrual pads from banana and bamboo fiber, I found out that their thoughtful approach to menstrual care reflects everything I believe in. Beyond being a brand, Saathi has built a community that inspires people to make conscious choices through meaningful, educational content. 

Their pads, made from bamboo fiber, are completely compostable- returning safely to the soil instead of harming it. But more than that, Saathi represents what sustainability truly means to me: thoughtful design, dignity for wsomen, and respect for the planet. 

Lighting the Way Forward

This Diwali, as I string up fairy lights and light diyas around my home, I’m reminded that light has many forms- awareness, kindness, responsibility. The same spirit that drives us to clean our homes can extend to cleaning our surroundings, our habits, and even our choices. 

So, as we celebrate light and renewal, I invite you to start where you are, with what you have. Carry that cloth bag, choose the eco-friendly option, and take pride in your effort. These little acts create ripples that brighten both your lifestyle and your mindset. 

This Diwali, your little swap could become someone else’s spark. Join me and many others for the #SaathiSparksChange challenge.

Perhaps it’s also time to ask ourselves: What kind of light are we bringing into the world- one that burns brightly for a moment, or one that helps it shine for generations to come?