Diwali is always celebrated with grandeur across India. Preparations for one of the most important festivals in the country begin days in advance replete with excitement and zeal. If you are wondering were to bring in the joyous festival this year, without having to worry about social distancing, we’d say, head to the idyllic tribal village of Purushwadi in Maharashtra. By Chandrani Pal
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Diwali 2020 is just around the corner but unlike previous years, this year most of us will celebrate the festival of lights indoors, thanks to the COVID-19 scare. However, after spending several months indoors due to the lockdown, the desire to head out on a vacation during the Diwali weekend is understandable. This is why we have come up with the perfect place for you to spend a socially-distanced Diwali.
A hidden gem in Maharashtra, Purushwadi, has the perfect ambience to celebrate Diwali this year while practising social distancing. Located in the scenic Western Ghats of Maharashtra, the village of Purushwadi is your retroscape for the occasion. An idyllic tribal village, Purushwadi is inhabited by many indigenous tribes, including the Hindu Mahadeo Koli tribe, and Diwali in this village is celebrated in the simplest yet most joyous manner.
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At Purushwadi, the noise of loud firecrackers is rightfully replaced with hearty laughter and the warmth of the villagers. Here, the nights are lightened with hundreds of fireflies — nature’s way of decking up on Diwali. The children of the village go from door to door with handmade earthen lamps in hands, asking to pour some oil in their lamps as part of a traditional ritual.
You can take a stroll in the village at night to witness thousands of fireflies embellish the trees and fields. Later, you can enjoy a delicious traditional Maharashtrian dinner at one of the village homes where families light up bonfires and cook scrumptious meals. The friendly villagers would also help you experience their life and culture in the form of activities like fishing, catching crabs, sowing and transplanting rice, etc.
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Along with Purushwadi, one can also pay a visit to some of the other nearby places like:
- Randha falls: This is a seasonal waterfall. It also has a temple nearby called the Ghorpada Devi temple.
- Arthur Lake: This lake came into existence when the Wilson Dam was built across the Pravara River; it is said to be one of the largest lakes in India. You can enjoy a picnic by the lake and later in the evening witness a beautiful sunset while enjoying boating at the lake.
- Mount Kalsubai: This is the highest peak in Maharastra. Tales tell that this peak is named after a girl named Kalsu who was fond of wandering in the forest and is believed to have been living in the hill till her last breath.
Where To Stay
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When visiting Puruswadi, book your stay at Anandvan Resort, Bhandardara. They have luxurious private cottages and villas. Pamper yourself with rejuvenating therapies at their spa, take a plunge in the hilltop infinity pool or go cycling amidst the greenery.
If you are a wine lover, the Anandvan Resort would make arrangements for you to take a tour at the Sula Vineyards at Nashik.
How To Get There
Anandvan Resort, Bhandardara is three hours away from Mumbai. Take a cab from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and cover the three-hour-long route to reach your resort.
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