Sunday, October 15, 2017

Festival of Lights and Fireworks

Deepavali, aka Diwali is just two days away (Oct 18) and it feels exciting. Deepavali (Festival of Lights) always been my favourite festival and I always look forward for this day, and fireworks is the main reason for me to feel alike. I have grown up bursting fireworks and I really enjoy watching the dazzling light and colours coming out of the fireworks and the sounds that create a joy mood. I wasn’t a fan of loud crackers and I have stopped buying those (burst in the ground) long back, but still the sounds come from the neighbourhood during Diwali resonates joy. Glad I had a wonderful childhood and memories of Deepavali, a time where I felt cheerful and continue to be so with memories to cherish.

Though the only firework I could lit being sparkles, I used to buy certain fireworks to (let someone) light up to enjoy the glowing spectacle. While residing in apartment (from 2006-2013) the celebration touched beyond fireworks, where we shared the festival spirit with neighbours who share sweets and snacks (of different kinds) with each other. Dressed in new attires, it’s wonderful to watch and receive greeting from friendly residents.  And in evening/night the kids gather in front of the apartment and make a dazzling show of fireworks, and I would be out watching their activities before going to my great aunt’s house in the suburb to light our fireworks and watch others aerial outs. I really miss all the things now, but still the festival light continues to glow and engross.

I could understand the opposition rising against bursting firework and the Supreme Court has banned selling fireworks at some places including the nation capital Delhi, where it created huge air pollution during last Diwali. Though it wasn’t the only reason for a city that tops the chart in pollution normally, fireworks added light to the glowing issue. Whatever they say, it’s not easy to erase the thought of Deepavali without fireworks, though we have no trace from when fireworks included in celebration, for kids growing up bursting fireworks is least possible to give up. I don’t think those stopped busting fireworks (or ever done with it) are conscious about nature and environment.  Its sheer delight of gadgets, internet and television that keeps away people from fireworks, though it may sound good, but when it applies to all festivals and events doesn’t sound same.   Diwali is a day in a year unlike these that continue to occupy us in good as well opposite ways.

There are scientific reasons that have been boon and bane supporting those who approve, as well oppose to fireworks. I’m not saying bursting firework is good or it should be completely ban. Firework industry in Tamil Nadu is a huge one and it has been a livelihood for more than 0.8 million people, but it isn’t that we all should buy firework and support their lives. Alternate jobs will sure to be better than making fireworks, which threat lives directly and it would take long time and for that huge change to happen but instead of banning reducing its usage would be better option.  Could we stop the New Year celebrations that open with grand fireworks across the globe or any sports events that loud cry with dazzling fireworks. I think regulating things and rule stronger guidelines will sure control the level of pollution in many ways.

As for now let stop here and celebrate Deepavali and what we need to add is more light and sweetness to the festival that illuminate the country and whoever practice the lighting festival. Pls share anything that adds sweetness with your near and dear ones, and fireworks wasn’t the only thing about Deepavali (or any other festival) that I believe is based on get-together and sharing happiness and bond between family and friends.  Cheers! 

13 comments:

Sandi said...

I’ve seen pictures of Diwali (or Deepavali, I didn’t know it was also called that!) Just yesterday, I kid you not, I was watching an old Star Trek episode (Data’s Day on The Next Generation) and he mentions that crew members are celebrating this festival! I hope they don’t ban fireworks completely. We have a few holidays that use them here too and they make things very special. July 4th in USA and New Year’s Eve. Also, we have so many lights for Christmas. Not fireworks, but just lights everywhere. It’s hard to imagine celebrations like this without them. It makes me think of my childhood too. I try to pass that on to my kids.

L. D. said...

It is interesting to hear of the controversial fireworks displays. We have always had public one but this past year our state let it be a free for all. People were shooing them off at all times of night and everywhere. After this one trial and error time they are now thinking it was a mistake to make them legal for everyone.

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Enjoy Deepavali..... The Festival of Lights sounds WONDERFUL... It's so much fun to celebrate--and you have such great memories of this special time...

But you are right when talking about the regulations... We all need to stay safe --and sometimes people need a little help (like regulations) in order to stay safe.... I prefer to stand in a safe area and watch the fireworks from a distance!

Hugs,
Betsy

carol l mckenna said...

Nothing wrong with regulating use of fireworks as they can be very dangerous ~ Our Fourth of July in the USA sounds a lot like your Festival Lights ~ May you have a happy, safe and wonderful Festival of Lights ~ enjoy ~ ^_^

A ShutterBug Explores ~ aka (A Creative Harbor)

eileeninmd said...

Hello, the festival of lights sounds beautiful. I do believe there should be some regulations on fireworks. Leave them to the professionals to put on a great display. Happy Monday, enjoy your new week!

Nancy Chan said...

Over here, Deepavali which falls on 18th October is a public holiday. Wishing you and family Happy Deepavali!

Sandhya said...

Happy Deepawali, Jeevan! We need not stop bursting crackers but there should be some limit to it. The birds and animals will be happy alongwith old and sick people!

Anonymous said...

The festival is today! Happy Deepawali!

Here in the United States, some states allow people to buy fireworks while others don't. Most of the cities and towns have their shows so you can go and watch them but they are so crowded and congested, I go end up going to a local beach and watch them from there instead. No traffic, just fireworks in the distance. Enjoy yourself today!

Elsie

Twilight Man said...

Wishing you and your family a very Happy Deepavali and Happy holidays!

GreenComotion said...

Happy DeepvaLi, dear Jeevan!
Hope you have a wonderful time.
Peace :)

ashok said...

Happy Deepavali Jeevan!

Rajesh said...

Jeevan, wish you very happy Deepavali.

Alok Singhal said...

I enjoyed bursting crackers this Diwali (my place in Haryana is just beyond the Delhi area). I don’t do much, though.

Hope you had a fantastic time.