PETALING JAYA: When veterinarian Dr Susanna Brida-Hofherr first celebrated Deepavali seven years ago, she was mesmerised by what the festival represented.
“I was taken by the lights and colours of Deepavali as it was so different from what we have in Europe,” said Dr Brida-Hofherr, who is from Austria.
I love what Deepavali represents – the concept of goodness and light conquering evil and darkness. My family and friends in Austria have all learnt about Deepavali from me and they, too, find it fascinating.
“They try to arrange their visits to coincide with Deepavali.”
This year’s Deepavali is extra special for Dr Brida-Hofherr, 45, and her husband as it will be their first as a couple after a courtship of seven years.
“It’s going to be our thalai Deepavali (first Deepavali after marriage) and we’ll be celebrating it with my parents and family in Penang,” said corporate trainer and management consultant Shankar Santhiram, 43.
Shankar said he realised that many people had forgotten that Deepavali had a deeper significance.
The couple, who lives in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, has been taking turns to spend Deepavali here and in Penang.
“When we celebrate it here, it also includes our dogs, cats and rabbits,” said Dr Brida-Hofherr, who is also an animal acupuncturist.
Dr Brida-Hofherr’s Deepavali starts with an oil bath in the morning before dressing in new clothes and going to the temple for prayers.
The couple has plans to host a dinner for their friends at the home of Shankar’s parents in Penang.
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