For most Malaysians, Deepavali isn’t just about the lights, it’s about the journey home. The smell of kari ayam from mum’s kitchen, the sound of laughter echoing through the house, and that long drive back filled with anticipation (and maybe a few “are we there yet?” moments).
This year, redBus is celebrating that spirit, the real stories behind the festival of lights. They spoke to three Malaysians, Sathiya, Presanna, and Arvin, each sharing what Deepavali means to them, from family traditions to the joy of coming home.
The Morning Rituals That Feel Like Magic
For Sathiyakumari, Deepavali morning begins with Ganga Snanam, the symbolic oil bath that marks new beginnings.
“Orang tua-tua kata sungai Ganga mengalir di setiap rumah,” she shared. And just like that, the day begins, with gratitude, light, and the smell of kari filling the air.
Where Tradition Meets the Kitchen
For Presanna, Deepavali officially starts when the murukku hits the oil. “It’s our family tradition,” she said. “Three generations, one kitchen, and endless laughter.”
Now married, she takes turns celebrating with both families, proof that traditions evolve, but the love behind them never fades.
When Community Becomes Family
Meanwhile, Arvin remembers one Deepavali spent cleaning the family temple before hosting lunch for the whole neighbourhood.
“That feeling of togetherness, that’s the real Deepavali,” he said.
The Journey That Brings It All Together
Whether it’s sitting through hours of traffic or accidentally forgetting your festive outfit (and having to turn back), these moments make every Deepavali memorable. “It’s not just about reaching home,” Sathiya said. “It’s about the stories that happen along the way.”
And that’s where redBus comes in, helping Malaysians travel home safely, so the only thing you need to focus on is who’s waiting for you at the end of the road.
Planning your own balik kampung trip?