Deepawali: Tradition, Transition, and Civic Responsibility

Diwali, or Deepawali, the grand festival of Hindus, has historically been a celebration of joy and communal harmony. Its origins are often traced to the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile—a moment marked by delight, elation, and collective jubilation.

However, over the decades, the charm and sanctity of the festival have evolved. The celebrations today are markedly different from those two or three decades ago, reflecting both societal changes and the pressures of modernity. A glance at the Puranas and Shastras reveals that the festival, dominated by the soothing glow of earthen diyas in the evening hours, has been observed in this spirit since Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya.

It is a matter of concern that the omnipresent earthen diyas are increasingly sidelined, replaced by candles, designer candles, and elaborate electric lighting. While these add glamour, they often overshadow the festival’s original simplicity. Modern celebrations also witness excessive display of wealth—ranging from high-end jewelry and luxury home appliances to limousines—creating a contrast between ritual and ostentation.

Changing habits on Diwali day do more than dilute tradition; they also increase the risk of accidents. The element of artificiality, once subtle, has become glaring. Yet, public mindfulness remains limited.

The environmental toll of firecrackers is substantial and well-documented. Despite repeated advisories from Central and State Pollution Control Boards, widespread violation of regulations continues. The slogans of the past—“Save Our Earth,” “Clean India, Green India,” “Swachchata Abhiyan,” “Van Hi Jeevan Hai”—often remain unheard amidst the noise and spectacle.

---

Silver Linings Amid Concerns

Even within this challenging scenario, there are positive developments:

1. Over two lakh earthen diyas were used for at least three days along the banks of the Saryu River in Ayodhya. The visual impact is so significant that it has reportedly entered the Guinness Book of World Records.

2. Following this, a similar initiative is being held at Kartavya Path in the national capital, with two lakh diyas on display on October 18 and 19. This event offers citizens an opportunity to experience the beauty of diyas, witness the power of cleanliness, and engage with a symbolic act that promotes long-term positive change.

For centuries, diyas have symbolized purity, goodwill, and freshness. Their enduring appeal is a testament to tradition’s resilience and cultural relevance.

The Supreme Court, on October 15, 2025, revised aspects of its 2018 ruling in Arjun Gopal vs. Union of India, signaling a “balanced approach” toward the use of firecrackers. While green crackers are permitted under regulation, enforcement remains uncertain. Monitoring compliance, imposing penalties, and ensuring public safety are persistent challenges, often hindered by inefficiencies in law enforcement and administration.

Diwali consistently registers a spike in pollution, causing severe distress, particularly to children and the elderly. The last fifteen years have seen air quality deteriorate sharply during the festival, creating conditions akin to a gas chamber in many localities.

This year, the situation is compounded by ongoing stubble burning in northern states. From September 15 to October 16, 2025, 888 incidents were reported:

Uttar Pradesh: 403

Punjab: 188

Madhya Pradesh: 171

Rajasthan: 91

Haryana: 28

Delhi: 3

Consequently, AQI levels have risen significantly:

Delhi: 233 (Oct 15) → 245 (Oct 16)

Noida: 288 (Oct 15) → 318 (Oct 16)

Ghaziabad: 307 (Oct 16)

Calm winds and high humidity trap pollutants close to the ground, particularly between 7 p.m. and midnight, increasing exposure. According to the India Meteorological Department, mist and haze will persist over the next two to three days, with AQI expected to remain in the Poor to Very Poor range across Delhi and the NCR.

Given these realities, citizens are urged to exercise restraint and focus on the glow of diyas rather than the glamour of firecrackers. Firecrackers—whether traditional or green—pose a slow, cumulative threat to health and the environment, unlike missiles that strike briefly but visibly. The risks are pervasive and hard to quantify or remedy.

It is also worth noting that on Diwali, only one specialized burn hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, operates round-the-clock in Delhi, supported by dedicated personnel from the police and fire services. Public cooperation is essential to prevent avoidable emergencies.

This Diwali, let tradition illuminate our paths. Let us cherish the warmth and symbolism of diyas, uphold cultural values, and act responsibly to protect our environment and health. The festival’s true spirit lies not in spectacle or excess, but in collective celebration, mindfulness, and civic responsibility.