Diwali celebrations are not yet over. Genuine environmental concerns, noise pollution where the AQI exploded way beyond acceptable levels made anxious voices rise and they are being quelled by argumentative responses. Blanket comments and generalizations have been brought into play. Religious sentiments have been raked up and personal accusations flung, where the whole issue should be one of mutually respectful discussions. This is in a residential society (whatsapp group) that believes itself to be educated, civil and one family. Certain reactions reeked of arrogance – “It is my money and I need no one to tell me how I should spend it. If I choose to blow it up in smoke and sound it is my wish.”  “It is an attack on our Hindu tradition.”  These are pathetically sad, discordant words and totally baseless.

Everyone has the right to celebrate in their own way. That said, the rejoicing should also be in a responsible manner. In their over-enthusiasm people tend to forget others. During certain festivals I have witnessed deafening music blaring through loud-speakers right across from hospitals.  High decibel fireworks exploding in busy streets and quiet towns, confusing mute animals, reducing them to scared, shivering specimen with nowhere to hide and startling birds out of their perches in the middle of the night.  

Can we show a little compassion towards these helpless beings? Can we try to understand the voices that stand up for these vulnerable ones without becoming aggressive and blaming them for being against certain traditions and festivities? They are not against these, they are for the voiceless. There is a difference there that should not be overlooked. Such concerns should not be seen as confrontational or personal attacks. We need to balance traditional customs and festivities with collective empathy, environmental consciousness and civic sense.

Diwali is the festival of India. Lighting of diyas, performing Laxmi Puja, making and eating traditional sweets and snacks at this time of the year have become synonymous with many non-Hindu homes in this land of Sanatana Dharma. (As it is in mine and the homes of my extended family). Abroad it is a festival all Indians celebrate with gusto. On Saturday 7th this year, we – a large gathering of interfaith people - had a special Diwali celebration with rangoli, diyas and a lot of fun and rejoicing.

May we not turn the beauty and unity of this day of lights into the darkness of divisiveness! Let us keep our inner lamps of positivity, inclusiveness, peace and understanding burning through all the days of the year.