Deepavali prep has always fallen into familiar roles: Amma in the kitchen, Appa on errands, the sister managing details. But everyone has become focused on their own task. And no one is really getting ready together.

Traditions thrive when everyone gets to play a part, no matter how small.

Every year, Susila’s family hosts the ‘perfect’ Deepavali open house. And every year, each family member falls into their usual role: Amma makes perfect murukus, Appa is the perfect grocery runner, Akka and Patti make the perfect kolam, and Anne puts up the decoration without a single crooked piece in sight. Everyone has a role to play except Susila, the youngest in the family. This year, those ‘roles’ start to slip. But it’s Susila’s chance to finally be a part of the preparation.