Here are some Deepavali films that lit up our newsroom ahead of the festivities

Deepavali, commonly referred to as Diwali or the Festival of Lights, commemorates the victory of light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil. During this festive occasion, Hindu families adorn their homes with luminous decorations and prepare a variety of delightful dishes and treats, making it a perfect time for family gatherings and celebrations.

Alongside the festivities, various brands have launched heartfelt films designed to resonate with the Malaysian audience. Some evoke emotions and tears, while some foster a sense of community, shining a light on Malaysia's multi-cultural society. 

From CelcomDigi to Taylor’s University, here are some of the ads we are seeing make its rounds this year.

Don't miss: What is ad spend looking like this Deepavali in Malaysia? 

1. AmBank Group 

Titled "Light of hope", AmBank Malaysia's Deepavali film showcases that the unexpected happens when things are going so well. It follows a character named Raju who goes from strength to strength, despite a life-changing event. 

At the same time, the film also features the power of friendship that has brought light of hope to his family this festive season. 

2. Astro

In Astro's Deepavali film this year titled "Marupakkam", a man named Arjun takes a video of an elderly man he assumed was drunk. Arjun posted the video online and it went viral. Later on, the elderly man is seen trying to help a girl to open get water bottle but her mother takes her away. In a convenience store, two teenagers take a picture of the elderly man and posts it on social media. The elderly man is later shunned wherever he goes, including with his own family. 

The film later reveals that the man wasn't drunk, but was instead fainting from dehydration. The film ends with a reminder to not jump to conclusions and to be kind to each other, and celebrate each other with love. 

3. CelcomDigi

CelcomDigi's Deepavali film titled "Inbam" explores the bond between generations through the story of two sisters Anjali and Lavinya. They embark on a mission to rekindle their grandmother's joy, reflecting on the profound happiness she experienced while making saris with her closest friends. As the sisters strive to revive these cherished memories, the film captures the essence of familial connections. 

The film is directed by Think Tank and encourages Malaysians to reflect on the traditions they hold dear and the intergenerational bonds that sustain them. At the same time, it invites viewers to see Deepavali as an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and celebrate shared joy. 

4. Maxis 

This year, Maxis' Deepavali aims to keep treasured connections closer, no matter the distance, In the film, Priya is working far away from her family as a doctor. As Deepavali comes to a close, Priya is seen attending a Deepavali celebration but struggles with her saree.  

She later reflects on how her mother had offered to teach her how to wrap her saree but a younger Priya retorts by saying that she's busy studying. Now as an adult, Priya calls her mother and asks for help. Her mother then guides her how to wrap her saree over the phone. 

5. MR D.I.Y. 

MR D.I.Y has released a heartwarming film for Deepavali titled "Petals of memory".  The film starts with a young man named Raju who returns home in time for the Deepavali celebrations. When Raju greets his grandmother, she passes Raju an orange flower, asking him "Do you remember this?" 

On Deepavali, Raju is later seen gifting grandma a bouquet of flowers. He hugs her and thanks her for reminding him of the love she has for him. The film ends with the family gathering and hugging as the text which reads "Moments bloom and fade, but love lasts forever" comes on screen.

6. Petronas 

In Petronas' Deepavali brand film titled "Shine Together", viewers follow a young boy named Laksham who is passionate in dancing. The film sees him dancing through life until he finally finds himself on stage for a performance. 

Laksham is initially shocked with fear and is unable to dance. His family member stands up from the crowd to remind him that he has a light in him and that he should let it dim. Encouraged by his family member's words, and fellow audience members who cheer him on, Laksham dances confidently on stage. 

7. Taylor's University  

Private educational institution Taylor's University is taking a stab at cyberbullying in its new Deepavali short film that features a blend of a powerful visual narrative with an original Tamil song, delivering a message that resonates deeply with today’s audience.

"Spark in the Dark" explores how to combat this epidemic of online abuse, focusing on a group often overlooked in discussions about cyberbullying: bystanders. The core message of the film is clear: bystanders play a critical role in dispelling the darkness of cyberbullying.

8. Tenaga Nasional Berhad

Tenaga Nasional Berhad's (TNB) Deepavali film starts with a family gathering around a TV to watch a Tamil music festival. The family watches the TV screen intently for Arulini Arumugam to come on stage and sing. Arulini comes forward and trips on her dress, shocking her family who is watching from home. 

As Arulini reflects and thinks of how her family has supported her all this while, she gathers her confidence again. 

Related articles:   
CelcomDigi explores intergenerational bonds in heartwarming Deepavali film  
This Deepavali brand film by MR D.I.Y is bound to make you cry 
8 Malaysian brand films that shone bright this Deepavali