Dear Varloo,
It was very nice to read about your Diwali celebrations. I had a few Malayalee friends at school and they used to tell me that Vishu and Onam were the most important festivals for them.
Your Diwali experience reminded me of my dad's description of his Diwali celebrations in the 50's. It seems his father (my grandfather) used to approach Honest Tailors in Trichy and ask him to stich 4 trousers for all the 4 sons. They would all be the same size irrespective of whether they were tall or short, and they would all look like Jailors.

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Wish you and your family a very Joyous and Happy Diwali!
Vidya