Pellane, who married V Janagaraj in August, celebrated in the warmth of her husband’s village in Kuching, far from her own family in Kampung Sira, Padawan.

The shift from celebrating festivals like Gawai and Christmas to Deepavali in her husband’s home resulted in her experiencing a range of emotions.

“It’s completely new to me. For the first time, I’m celebrating in a different culture, surrounded by my husband’s family, and it’s so special,” she said when met after prayers at the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple here yesterday.

Indeed, what truly set this celebration apart wasn’t just the setting – it was the fusion of cultures. Janagaraj, 24, ensured their Deepavali feast blended the best of both worlds: Indian and Bidayuh.

As such, guests were treated to a delicious mix of traditional Indian curries and rich Bidayuh chicken dishes like ayam pansuh.

Janagaraj didn’t just help with the cooking – he also played a part in the decorating. Together, he and Pellane beautified their home with colourful kolam and glowing oil lamps, making the celebration even more memorable.

For him, Deepavali in Sarawak took on a deeper meaning: as a minority in the state, sharing his heritage with his wife and community was an invaluable experience.

“We may not have a public holiday like in peninsular Malaysia, but the spirit of Deepavali is alive and well here. Having my wife experience my traditions with me makes it all the more meaningful,” he said.