The month of Kartika stands as one of the greatest symbols of India’s spirituality and faith. Its sacredness spans across festivals such as Diwali, Govardhan Puja, Vishwakarma Puja, Bhaiya Dooj, and Hanuman Jayanti. Beyond these, Kartika also encompasses many other celebrations that highlight the unity and diversity of religious traditions in India. As we extend our warm wishes for Diwali, it’s also important to reflect on its environmental impact. Unfortunately, Diwali has now become the time of year when air pollution reaches its highest levels. On this day, the Air Quality Index (AQI) often exceeds 500 — a level extremely dangerous to human health. While bursting firecrackers is an age-old festive custom, the simple fireworks of the past — like sparklers and “anar” (pomegranate-shaped fireworks) — have been replaced by loud, high-pollution explosives.
Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his exile, when the city welcomed him with rows of oil lamps. This act symbolizes the victory of righteousness and the dawn of good governance. Just as Lord Rama endured hardships while upholding moral values, we too should resolve to face life’s challenges with integrity and purpose. Lighting a lamp should remind us of this pledge — to spread light, not smoke.
While Diwali is indeed the festival of lights, today’s celebrations often focus more on fireworks. I personally believe that the Supreme Court’s and government’s regulations regarding firecrackers, especially in Delhi, should be strictly followed. Pollution has multiple causes — population growth, vehicular emissions, and stubble burning among them — but it is proven that fireworks contribute significantly to worsening air quality. Encouragingly, the use of green firecrackers, which cause minimal pollution, has been approved. These should be embraced, as they preserve both the joy and dignity of the festival.
The Delhi government recently appealed to the Supreme Court for permission to use green crackers, and the Court has allowed them within specific time limits. It is now our collective responsibility to follow these guidelines and show restraint. Past incidents of people bursting crackers throughout the night have not only violated rules but also harmed those suffering from respiratory ailments like asthma. To truly honor the spirit of Diwali, we must protect everyone’s health and well-being.
Govardhan Puja, celebrated soon after Diwali, honors Lord Krishna, who humbled Lord Indra by lifting the Govardhan mountain on his finger. On this day, devotees prepare and share Shatsaga — a mixed vegetable curry made from all the vegetables of the season — along with rice as sacred prasad. Bhai Dooj follows, when sisters apply tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, praying for their happiness and prosperity. These rituals remind us to not only wish well for our families but also for society as a whole.
My message this Diwali is simple — celebrate responsibly, follow the rules, and keep the environment clean. Fires caused by careless use of firecrackers are now common, and we must prevent them. Let us make this Diwali meaningful by emphasizing light over smoke, compassion over excess, and charity over pollution. A Diwali celebrated with purity, restraint, and goodwill — that is the true Diwali.
