“Diwali is the most important time for our family. It’s when we earn most of our income, and the weeks before the festival are crucial. Every detail of our lanterns—the colorful beads, the mirror work for the lanterns are done with care. People who buy from us know they’re getting something special, something that carries the essence of our tradition.

This year, we’re hopeful for better sales. Diwali is about light, and knowing that our lanterns brighten homes across the city makes us work even harder.

Despite our age-related struggles, what keeps us going is the appreciation people still have for handcrafted work. My wife and I decorate these lanterns together; it’s more than just earning a living. It’s being part of something that has meaning, something passed down through generations. As long as there are people who value this craft, we’ll continue making these lanterns, adding our light to the festival.”

• Mukesh Gupta, Artisan from Hyderabad