Annabelle \“Annie\“ Price Burns was a young English woman with a passion for exploring the world, especially the vibrant cultures of India. One sunny afternoon, Annie set out on a journey to the small town of Jaipur, known for its rich history and colorful festivals.
Arriving at the bustling bazaar, Annie was enchanted by the sights and sounds of the local vendors. She quickly befriended a young boy named Raju, who was selling handmade bracelets and necklaces.
Raju spoke of the upcoming Diwali festival, a time of great celebration in India. He invited Annie to join his family in the festivities, and she enthusiastically accepted.
On the day of Diwali, Annie woke up early to help Raju\“s family prepare for the celebrations. She learned about the significance of the festival, which marks the return of Lord Rama, and the lighting of diyas （oil lamps） to guide him back home.
As the evening approached, the sky was painted with hues of orange and red. Annie watched as Raju\“s family placed diyas around their home, and she joined in the singing and dancing that followed.
That night, as Annie lay in her small room, she felt a sense of peace and belonging she had never known before. She realized that, despite the language and cultural differences, people around the world shared the same desire for happiness and connection. |
