I grew up in Malaysia which is a multiethnic country. The main ethnic groups in Malaysia consist of Malay, Chinese and Indian. Hence, I am fortunate to be able to celebrate the different festivities of all three ethnic groups.
Diwali, the festival of light, is one of the most significant holidays for the Hindu community. This year it falls on November 3- 7. It also happened to be one of my favorite holidays. My childhood memory of the festival begins with the clay lamps. I was mesmerized by the small clay lamps filled with oil that are lit in all Hindu households. The small clay lamps signify the triumph of good over evil, and the lights are kept on during the night. I remember asking my mom’s permission to do the same in our household. Unfortunately, I was being turned down due to fire hazard. In recent years many households switched to the electric version.
Homes are also cleaned prior to the festival to welcome the goddess of Lakshmi and the smell of food and cookies fill the entire household. Paper lanterns and incredible Rangooli (A design on the floor made from colored rice and powder) are used to decorate the household and shopping malls. Rangoli is used as a joyful way to welcome the Goddness of Wealth and Prosperity. Hindu women will adorn their beautiful saris (a traditional Hindu dress), colorful bangles and earrings and Men will wear dhoti (sarong wrapped around the waist and leg) with an oxford shirt.
I got so excited when Sodexo Executive chef at Lahey, Dave Cox and line cook, Ravi Rajkarnikar, introduced Indian cuisine at the cafeteria in Lahey Hospital and Medical Center this week in conjunction with the upcoming diwali celebration.
The menu consists of: Plain Pulao ( Basmati Rice cooked with a touch of Butter, Green Peas, and Raisins) Plain Naan (Indian Bread) Polak Rahma Masala (Spinach cooked in a sauce with Kidney beans and Peppers) Vegetable Pakora (Indian Mixed Vegetable Fritter cooked in Chick pea flour) Makhani Chicken (Butter chicken, a popular Indian dish, cooked in Tomato based gravy, Butter, Cream, and Nuts) Onion Chutney, Tamarind Chutney
As I savor every bite of this sumptuous meal, it brings back my childhood memories and a taste of home. What a wonderful way to celebrate the festivity and introduce diversity at work.
Kudos to the Food and Nutrition team. Happy Diwali everyone!
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