Showrunner Siddhartha Vankar Gets Candid About Diwali: From Childhood Nostalgia to Balancing Television Deadlines and Family Traditions

Acclaimed writer, creator, and showrunner Siddhartha Vankar—best known for blockbuster television shows like Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, and his highly anticipated upcoming drama Dil Ki Bewafaiyaan starring Gaurav Khanna and Shraddha Arya—shares how the festival of Diwali has taken on new meaning at every stage of his life.

From Carefree Childhoods to Creating Memories

Reflecting on how his perspective on the festival of lights has evolved over the years, Vankar recalls the simple pleasures of growing up:

"As a child, Diwali meant new clothes, sweets, crackers, and the absolute conviction that my share of the mithai was never enough. As a young man, it was about friends, celebrations, and making memories. Today, it has become much more about family, togetherness, and the little joys that we sometimes overlook in our everyday lives."

He fondly remembers a time before social media aesthetics and calorie counting took over festive gatherings, noting that people simply showed up at each other's doorsteps unannounced—and refusing a second helping of sweets was almost considered an insult to the host.

Today, Diwali at the Vankar household is a lively blend of tradition and happy chaos. He humorously admits that his wife, Kritika, handles the entire creative vision for the home, while his contribution involves admiring her decisions, offering unsolicited opinions, and quietly taking credit when the house looks beautiful. Watching his daughter, Katha, experience the festivities has made the season deeply fulfilling:

"There’s a beautiful feeling in realizing that you’re now responsible for creating the very memories your parents once created for you."

Navigating Television Deadlines During the Festive Rush

Because the festive season coincides with one of the busiest periods in Indian television, Vankar has learned to carve out space for family despite relentless production schedules:

"After spending so many years in television, I’ve realized that the words ‘work-life balance’ are perhaps the greatest fictional concept ever created! Television doesn’t really understand festivals. Episodes still have to be written, stories still need to move forward, and deadlines remain gloriously indifferent to the festive calendar."

With his signature wit, he adds that waiting for work to finish before celebrating would mean celebrating Diwali around Holi—and no TRP rating can ever compete with a great Diwali dinner surrounded by loved ones talking past midnight.

A Heartfelt Message Beyond Festive Wishes

Offering a refreshing piece of advice to fans this season, Vankar urges everyone not to postpone joy for special occasions:

"Wear that outfit you’ve been saving. Use the expensive crockery. Take that holiday. Meet the friend you’ve been promising to meet for six months. Tell your parents you love them, hug your children a little longer, and don’t wait for a festival to make someone feel special. I think somewhere in the rush of building our lives, we occasionally forget to enjoy them."

Drawing from years of crafting intense, high-stakes television drama, he signs off with a light reminder not to take life too seriously—reminding readers that the brightest thing anyone can light up this Diwali isn't their home, but someone else’s face with a genuine smile.