Sonia Gandhi Remembers Diwali Celebrations at Indira Gandhi's Home

On November 8, 2026, senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi shared nostalgic memories of Diwali celebrations at her late mother-in-law Indira Gandhi's residence, 1-Safdarjung Road. In a heartfelt video conversation with her daughter Priyanka Gandhi and granddaughter Miraya Vadra, Sonia illuminated the cherished traditions that marked the festival in her family. The video, shared on social media platforms X and Instagram, captures the essence of Diwali as a time of joy, family bonding, and cultural heritage.

Sonia Gandhi vividly recalled how the entire house would be adorned with diyas, the traditional earthen lamps, creating a beautiful ambiance. "We would do the first lighting of the diyas by Ganeshji's murti. In those days, we didn't have those little lights everywhere but we had diyas everywhere, around the pond, all along the roof, veranda, and along the path. It was very pretty," she shared, evoking a sense of nostalgia that resonated with many viewers.

The significance of these rituals goes beyond mere decoration; they represent a deep-rooted cultural practice that has been passed down through generations. The lighting of diyas symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, a theme central to the Diwali festival.

Sonia also reminisced about the special Kashmiri dishes that were prepared during the festival. The culinary aspect of Diwali holds a special place in Indian culture, and for Sonia, it was a time to indulge in traditional recipes that brought the family together. "Kashmiri food would be cooked during festival time," she noted, highlighting the importance of food in fostering familial bonds during celebrations.

Priyanka Gandhi added her own memories, recalling how their father, Rajiv Gandhi, would take them to Chandni Chowk for firecracker shopping. This tradition of visiting Old Delhi for Diwali preparations is a cherished memory for many families, symbolizing the excitement and joy that comes with the festival.

The conversation took a nostalgic turn as Sonia described the exuberance of Diwali celebrations in her youth, particularly the use of firecrackers. "People used to go berserk with firecrackers in those days," she said, adding that she had a fondness for 'phuljhadi', a type of sparkler. This playful reminiscence reflects the carefree spirit of childhood and the joy that festivals bring to families.

Diwali is not just a religious festival; it is a cultural phenomenon that brings together families and communities. The memories shared by Sonia and Priyanka serve as a reminder of the importance of these traditions in maintaining familial ties and cultural identity.

In her recent memoir, 'Belonging: A Journey of Love', set to be published on November 10, Sonia Gandhi reflects on her life, including the profound impact of her mother-in-law's assassination on her family. In an excerpt shared by DotMR, she recounts the emotional turmoil she experienced when Rajiv Gandhi was asked to become Prime Minister following Indira Gandhi's death on October 31, 1984.

Sonia's poignant recollection of that moment reveals the weight of responsibility that fell upon Rajiv and the subsequent fear that gripped their family. "I felt as if a knife had been plunged right into my heart. I felt a pounding in my chest, a rage welling up deep inside me. I was about to explode. I attempted to hold it in," she wrote, capturing the raw emotions of that tragic time.

Sonia Gandhi's reflections on Diwali celebrations at Indira Gandhi's home serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of her mother-in-law. The traditions, the food, and the family gatherings are not just memories; they are a part of India's cultural fabric that continues to influence generations. As Sonia shared her memories, she not only honored her family's past but also reinforced the importance of preserving these traditions for future generations.

In a world that is constantly changing, the values of love, family, and tradition remain timeless. Sonia Gandhi's heartfelt reminiscences remind us that festivals like Diwali are more than just celebrations; they are a way to connect with our roots and cherish the bonds that unite us.