Millions of Indians are celebrating Diwali, one of Hinduism's most significant and widely observed festivals. The festival is known as the "festival of lights," where people decorate their homes with diyas or lamps and burst firecrackers to symbolize good over evil and light over darkness.
However, air pollution is a major concern during Diwali due to the burning of firecrackers. In recent years, several states have restricted or banned firecrackers to combat rising air pollution, but the rules are often flouted. The Supreme Court has permitted the sale and use of "green crackers" in Delhi this year, which claim to emit 20-30% less pollution than traditional firecrackers.
While some people welcome the move, others doubt its effectiveness. Diwali is not just about fireworks; it's also a time for family gatherings, feasting, and giving gifts. The festival has become an integral part of Indian culture and tradition.
In many parts of India, markets are bustling with shoppers buying sweets, gifts, decorations, and firecrackers, which gives a significant boost to the economy each year. People from different communities and faiths come together to celebrate this festival. As one elderly woman in Mumbai puts it, "Diwali is a time for joy, love and unity."
The festival's significance extends beyond India; it has gained global attention due to its widespread celebration and media coverage. The festival is celebrated not only in India but also by Sikhs and Jains.
In the days leading up to Diwali, people clean their homes, buy new clothes, and prepare traditional sweets for exchange as gifts with friends and family. Traditional rangoli designs are drawn outside doors to invite luck and positivity. On Diwali itself, families worship Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth.
As the world celebrates Diwali, it's a reminder that festivals can bring people together and foster unity across cultures and faiths.
However, air pollution is a major concern during Diwali due to the burning of firecrackers. In recent years, several states have restricted or banned firecrackers to combat rising air pollution, but the rules are often flouted. The Supreme Court has permitted the sale and use of "green crackers" in Delhi this year, which claim to emit 20-30% less pollution than traditional firecrackers.
While some people welcome the move, others doubt its effectiveness. Diwali is not just about fireworks; it's also a time for family gatherings, feasting, and giving gifts. The festival has become an integral part of Indian culture and tradition.
In many parts of India, markets are bustling with shoppers buying sweets, gifts, decorations, and firecrackers, which gives a significant boost to the economy each year. People from different communities and faiths come together to celebrate this festival. As one elderly woman in Mumbai puts it, "Diwali is a time for joy, love and unity."
The festival's significance extends beyond India; it has gained global attention due to its widespread celebration and media coverage. The festival is celebrated not only in India but also by Sikhs and Jains.
In the days leading up to Diwali, people clean their homes, buy new clothes, and prepare traditional sweets for exchange as gifts with friends and family. Traditional rangoli designs are drawn outside doors to invite luck and positivity. On Diwali itself, families worship Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth.
As the world celebrates Diwali, it's a reminder that festivals can bring people together and foster unity across cultures and faiths.
I think its kinda weird how ppl still use firecrackers which is super bad for the environment lol. I mean i know some ppl in my class are actually against the ban on firecrackers cuz they like the noise & all but its just not cool to me 
. My friend who's a environmental science major said that green crackers rnt even that eco friendly 
. But at the end of the day ppl r gonna do what ppl want & air pollution is still a big prob during diwali 
. Can we pls find some alternative ways to celebrate without hurting our planet tho? 
it's like, the most lit festival ever! but ugh, air pollution is such a bummer 
gotta say, tho, green crackers r a great idea 
lets hope ppl dont just ignore the rules tho 
and like, can we pls talk about how amazing it is that diwali brings ppl together across cultures & faiths? 
its all about love, joy, and unity! 
Firecrackers are cool, but have you tried those green ones? 
20-30% less pollution still means they're not exactly eco-friendly... 
.
. And what about all the economic benefits that come with Diwali - should we be prioritizing our citizens' health over some fancy festival celebrations? It's like choosing between the national interest and personal interests - tough call, right? 
it's like, what even is the point of celebrating if we're just gonna destroy our lungs afterwards?
I'm loving how some states are taking steps to reduce pollution on Diwali, like those green crackers 
. But at the same time, I feel like we're still not doing enough to minimize our impact on the environment 
.
. I've seen some cool vids of people making diyas at home, like a total DIY party 
. But seriously, Diwali's more than just fireworks - it's about family and friends coming together to celebrate 
. It's amazing how this festival has become an important part of Indian culture, and now the world gets to experience it too 
I think its crazy how much impact Diwali has on India's economy 
every year. People really go all out with their shopping sprees 
and it's awesome to see communities coming together over something so joyful 
.
anyway i guess its a trade off right? we have green crackers now which is kinda cool 
. But I gotta say, air pollution during Diwali is super worrying. Like, yeah we need those green crackers or whatever, but have you seen the stuff they're selling on the streets? It's like, anyone can make a diya and claim it's eco-friendly 
. But, I feel bad 4 air pollution 
. And, let's not forget the yummy sweets & treats 
!
! Let's spread love, light, & positivity 
everywhere we go 
. Who's w/ me? 
. It's like, the one time of year where everyone puts their differences aside and just comes together to celebrate. And that's something we can all learn from 
.