Happy Diwali

Today is Christmas. And I'm happy!!!

I'm not a Christian, but still I'm very happy!

Even though I didn't party today. Even though I didn't go to the church. I'm still very happy!

Are you wondering why? Let me tell you why! Because, I felt something.

Wish you a Merry Christmas!

I went to central Delhi today. It was full of people - some were singing Christmas songs, some were playing guitar, while others were dancing. It was like a grand party! A party with countless number of people. A party with mini-parties within it! And, there was a long queue in front of the church. A lot of them were not even Christians. But they were enjoying and celebrating in their own way.

Since the morning I've been getting Christmas wishes! I'm not a Christian but I'm responding to those wishes. 

For some time, I have been wondering - Why can't we respect all religions? Why are we always fighting? Why do we differentiate people on the basis of religion - "She is a Hindu", "He is a Muslim", "My child, marry someone belonging to the same religion, same caste!" All these stereotypical thoughts seem to have trapped us.

But, what I saw today, gave me hope! Yes, hope is what I felt today!

...what I saw today, gave me hope! Yes, hope is what I felt today! ...we will be able to create a new reality. One where there is less hate and more love!

We need to rethink and recreate our religious beliefs to make this world a better place. And, if we can celebrate all festivals together like this and at a deeper level respect each others religions - we will be able to create a new reality. One where there is less hate and more love!

And, this feeling, this thought, is what's making me happy! 😊

- Manisha Pandey