Deepavali Nal Valthukkal - A Children's Picture Book

Published by Gasing Buku in November 2023

This book tells of a boy who spends the eve of Deepavali - the Festival of Lights - with his Indian-Chinese neighbours. While participating in their festive preparations, the boy learns about the language, food, culture, and traditions of Malaysian Indians and Deepavali.

I spent a good few months researching on how Malaysian Hindus celebrate Deepavali. Most of it was done through interviews with my Hindu friends.

I insisted on not following the pastel palettes of most picture books and went with bursts of colours to represent the most vibrant festival celebrated in my country.

I am exceptionally proud of the opening pages which presents a quintessential Malaysian housing area with their many tropical trees and flowering plants.