Renu Gill, Manager of Laboratory Operations at the Victoria Reference Lab, shares how the Festival of Lights connects her family through hope and community.
As Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated, LifeLabs recognizes the diversity of our team and the rich cultural traditions that make each employee unique. This year, Renu Gill, Manager of Laboratory Operations at the Victoria Reference Lab, shares what Diwali means to her and the joy she finds in passing on its traditions.
“Diwali is about so much more than just a celebration. It’s a time to honour the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. For me, it’s about family, gratitude, and the hope that light represents, especially when life feels challenging.”
As a Sikh, Diwali has a dual significance for Renu’s family. “For us, it also coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, which celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind from prison,” she describes. “It’s a deeply meaningful holiday, and we celebrate it by going to the Gurdwara, lighting candles, and sharing parsaad, a sweet dish that symbolizes the sweetness of community.”
Traditions from her childhood remain a big part of her Diwali celebrations today. “Growing up, we’d spend hours cleaning the house, making sure every corner was spotless,” she recalls. “My mother would lead my brothers and me through every room, and that’s something I still do today with my kids—though it’s definitely more challenging with two active young boys!”
After the home is prepared, the celebrations begin with lighting divas, small oil lamps, and sparklers. “It’s become a tradition for my kids, their cousins, and our friends to gather and light sparklers together. Those little moments, where you’re all together under the night sky, make it so special,” she says. “And of course, we all come together to share a feast filled with all kinds of delicious Indian food and sweets. Food is central to Diwali—it’s what brings people together.”
For Renu, Diwali wouldn’t be complete without traditional Indian dishes, especially the ones her mother and mother-in-law prepare. “Diwali has so many flavours! From savoury snacks like pakoras and samosas to sweets like gulab jamun and jalebis,” she says. “My mother-in-law goes all out, and she makes sure we have plenty to eat. My favourite was always my mom’s saffron-infused sweet rice. It’s something I now look forward to every year.”
Even dressing up plays an important role in her family’s celebrations. “We wear colourful, traditional outfits, and I’ve even managed to get my boys excited about wearing kurtas. It’s fun for them, and it’s a way of connecting with their roots.”
Looking back, Renu recalls two Diwalis that left a lasting impact on her life. “When I was 10, my parents took us to India for the first time, and we celebrated Diwali at my father’s childhood home. It was magical—the colours, the lights, the fireworks—everything was so vibrant,” she reflects. “Then, in 2017, we celebrated our first Diwali with my youngest son, Pavan. It was special because it was the first time my oldest, Jeevan, was old enough to fully understand the meaning of Diwali. We were all together as a family, and that made it unforgettable.”
Through her story, Renu shares a wish for others to find meaning in Diwali as well. “Even if you’re not celebrating Diwali for its religious aspects, I’d encourage anyone to light a candle with family or friends,” she says. “Diwali is about hope, positivity, and community. It’s a beautiful opportunity to bring light into your life and share it with others.”
STRONGER TOGETHER
We thank Renu for sharing her story. We’re proud to celebrate Diwali alongside our diverse team, as we all find light
in understanding, connection, and shared moments of joy. At LifeLabs, we are committed to creating an inclusive culture and embracing the rich diversity that each member brings. Together, we are stronger.