Actor Naman Shaw has revisited his childhood Diwali memories from Kolkata, where he grew up in a joint family alongside six cousins, describing the festival as a celebration of togetherness far beyond crackers and new clothes.

Crackers, Competitions and Cousins

Shaw recalled how the festive excitement would begin long before Diwali night itself. "Diwali has always been my favourite festival, and some of my fondest childhood memories are from Kolkata, where I grew up in a joint family with six cousins. The excitement would begin with all of us going to the markets together, buying crackers and then distributing them amongst ourselves," he said.

Living in a large residential society added another layer of fun. "We lived in a big society, so in the evenings, all the kids would gather downstairs. We would have our own little competitions — whose crackers were better, whose cracker made the most noise, and whose would last the longest! Looking back, those little things brought us so much happiness," the actor added.

Family Pujas and Festive Hopping

Beyond the cracker wars, Shaw described a tradition of visiting his family's shop for puja and then hopping from one cousin's shop to another, soaking in the festive atmosphere across the neighbourhood. Wearing new clothes, he said, was another highlight of the season — a small ritual that carried enormous emotional weight for the children.

Reflecting on what those years truly meant, he said: "When I look back today, I realise it wasn't just about the crackers or the celebrations. It was about being together as a family, the innocence of childhood, and the joy of celebrating everything together. Those are memories I will always cherish."

Diwali Today: A Son's Excitement Adds a New Layer

Now a father himself, Shaw says the festival has taken on fresh meaning. "I think Diwali is all about spending quality time with your family. I enjoy the traditional aspects — lighting diyas, decorating the house, having good food, and being surrounded by loved ones. But as I've grown older, I've realised that it's the simple moments that matter the most. Especially now, with my son, seeing the excitement and happiness on his face makes the festival even more special," he said.

The Message He Carries Forward

Shaw also spoke about the deeper philosophy of Diwali, one he believes should extend into everyday life. "For me, Diwali is a reminder that light will always find its way through darkness. Beyond the celebrations, it's about hope, positivity, kindness, and letting go of negativity. I think we should carry that spirit into our everyday lives — be a little kinder, more grateful, and more compassionate towards others," he said.

He added: "We often get so caught up in our busy lives that we forget the importance of spreading happiness, and I think that's what the true spirit of Diwali is all about."

About Naman Shaw

On the professional front, Naman Shaw is best known for his roles in popular Hindi television shows including 'Kasamh Se', 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi', 'Kasautii Zindagii Kay', 'Kasturi', and 'Tashan-e-Ishq'. He has more recently appeared as Adit Saxena in 'Mangal Lakshmi' and as Anuj in 'Kairee – Rishta Khatta Meetha'.