Ganesh Muren and Sasibai Kimis discuss which foods are a must-have during Deepavali in their homes and how food brings family and friends together.
The Hindu festival of lights is right around the corner, with plenty of delicious foods surely to be shared across Malaysia for the day.
With food playing such an integral role in our society and culture, Malaysia Tatler speaks to entrepreneurs Ganesh Muren of Saora Industries and Sasibai Kimis of Earth Heir to learn just what makes food so central to the Deepavali celebrations.
What are some of the things you look forward to with your Deepavali celebrations every year?
Ganesh Muren (GM): Just being with my family. When I prepare for Deepavali, it’s a ritual in a sense that I start by clearing my agenda for a few days around the day itself, make note of what I want to wear, or if there’s a theme for the family this year, and even note what time I need to be up and ready for breakfast. It’s about dedicating myself and my time to my family, a privilege not everyone has that I am thankful for.
Sasibai Kimis (SK): Going back to my hometown Ipoh! When my grandmother was well, she's also a fantastic cook, Deepavali was a time for feasting, playing with firecrackers with all the neighbourhood kids and meeting up with cousins and family friends. It is the one time of the year when our families are unhindered to just chill, eat, catch up and have fun!
Can you tell us what dishes are a household speciality at your home during the festivities?
GM: This may sound odd, but my family loves having ikan bilis sambal. When we were younger, Deepavali consisted of visits to temples, prayers, simple morning breakfasts and visits to relatives. We didn’t have much to spend on food but we would always look forward to going back home after visits to eat with our own family and ikan bilis sambal was always there. We would eat it with nasi lemak, string hoppers, chapati or just plain rice. Until today, we must have ikan bilis sambal on Deepavali day. It just brings our family together.
SK: Fried chicken! My grandma would make a mountain of them and all of us kids would be running around and coming into the kitchen to grab a piece before going back to playing. Also, muruku and athirasam. Even as I have begun to eat a more vegetarian-focused diet, indulging in fried chicken occasionally is part of my routine.
