As
the much-anticipated festival of Diwali approaches, the atmosphere is charged
with excitement and joy. Known as the Festival of Lights, sweets, and firecrackers,
Diwali is celebrated with fervor across India and among the Indian diaspora
worldwide. This vibrant festival commemorates the victory of good over evil and
symbolizes the spiritual triumph of light over darkness. Traditionally, it has
been a time for families to come together, shop, decorate their homes, and
prepare for the year’s most significant celebration. However, in recent years,
the celebration has been overshadowed by growing concerns regarding
environmental pollution and climate change.
With
these pressing issues in mind, it is essential to pause and reconsider how we
celebrate Diwali. While the joy of the festival remains, it is increasingly
evident that the practices surrounding Diwali must evolve. What was once a
celebration marked by traditional diyas and homemade sweets has transformed
into an event synonymous with noise, pollution, and extravagant spending. This
change has serious implications not only for the environment but also for our
health and well-being. Therefore, it is time to advocate for a shift towards a
more sustainable and eco-friendly way to celebrate Diwali—a “Green Diwali.”
Understanding
Green Diwali
At
its core, Green Diwali is about celebrating the festival with minimal harm to
the environment, particularly concerning the excessive use of firecrackers. The
bursting of firecrackers contributes significantly to air and noise pollution,
leading to various health issues, especially respiratory ailments, during the
festive season. As responsible citizens, it is our duty to embrace eco-friendly
practices that honor the spirit of the festival while safeguarding our planet.
Diwali,
rooted in ancient legends, particularly the story of Lord Rama, who returned to
Ayodhya after a long exile, symbolizes light’s victory over darkness and good's
triumph over evil. Though the festival has its origins in Hindu tradition, it
is celebrated by various religions, including Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists, each
attributing their unique significance to the occasion. Despite these diverse
interpretations, the common thread remains—the celebration of togetherness,
joy, and reflection.
The
Need for Environmental Responsibility
Today,
more than ever, we must prioritize the health of our environment and fellow
citizens. The celebration of Diwali should not come at the expense of air
quality, public health, or the well-being of the elderly and those vulnerable
to pollution-related illnesses. Thus, it is imperative to promote a Green
Diwali that aligns with our collective responsibility to the environment and
future generations.
A
green approach to Diwali can manifest in several meaningful ways:
1. Illuminate
with Diyas: Instead of relying on electricity or extravagant decorations,
embrace the traditional charm of earthen diyas. These simple oil lamps
illuminate homes beautifully and create a warm atmosphere. Furthermore, they
are cost-effective and sustainable, as they are made from natural materials.
2. Opt
for Handmade Gifts: Move away from plastic and electronic gifts that contribute
to waste. Choose personalized gifts made from organic materials such as cloth
or jute. Wrapping gifts in newspapers, particularly the comic strips section
for children, adds a creative touch while being eco-friendly.
3. Create
Natural Rangoli: Instead of chemical colors, use natural materials like flower
petals, turmeric, or coffee powder to create vibrant rangoli designs. These
biodegradable options can be easily disposed of in compost bins, promoting a
cleaner environment.
4. Donate
Unwanted Items: While decluttering in preparation for Diwali, consider donating
items you no longer need instead of discarding them. This act of kindness not
only helps those less fortunate but also reduces waste.
5. Minimize
Firecracker Use: While it may be challenging to convince children to forgo
firecrackers, educate them about the environmental impact of their use. If
bursting crackers is deemed necessary, opt for eco-friendly alternatives made
from recycled materials that produce less pollution.
6. Encourage
Community Involvement: Make it a collective effort by involving neighbors and
friends in green initiatives. Together, you can promote eco-friendly practices
within your community, setting a positive example for others to follow.
7. Support
Local Businesses: Embrace the spirit of Diwali by supporting local artisans and
businesses. Purchase handmade decorations, sweets, and gifts that reflect the
rich cultural heritage of your region, contributing to the local economy while
ensuring sustainability.
8. Mindful
Celebrations: Finally, as we celebrate, let us focus on the essence of
Diwali—togetherness, love, and compassion. Prioritize moments of connection
with loved ones over materialistic pursuits.
A
Commitment to Change
As
we celebrate Diwali this year, let us commit to a green approach that honors
both tradition and our environment. The Supreme Court’s recent rulings on the
sale and use of certain firecrackers reflect a growing recognition of the need
for environmental protection. Embracing eco-friendly practices not only aligns
with legal mandates but also resonates with a moral obligation to protect our
planet.
Let
the Festival of Lights serve as a catalyst for positive change. By prioritizing
eco-friendly practices, we can illuminate our lives and homes while
safeguarding our environment. As Swami Vivekananda eloquently stated, those who
work solely for themselves are, in essence, more dead than alive. Let us embody
the spirit of Diwali, a festival that transcends boundaries, by promoting a
greener, healthier world for ourselves and future generations. Together, we can
make this Diwali not only a celebration of lights but also a testament to our
commitment to environmental responsibility and community well-being.
(Email:
dipakkurmiglpltd@gmail.com)
