Reviving traditional ways of celebrating, opting for eco-friendly choices and adopting sustainable practices can bring back the gaiety and meaningfulness associated with Diwali, writes DIVYA BHATIA

Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most anticipated and cherished celebrations in India. Traditionally, Diwali has been a time for family gatherings, sharing sweets, lighting oil lamps (diyas) and engaging in heartfelt festivities. However, in recent years, the essence of Diwali has been overshadowed by excessive noise, air pollution and a culture of pomp and show. Remember the days when Diwali was celebrated with genuine joy - families dressed in new clothes, shared homemade sweets, and children delighted in simple fireworks like chakris and phuljharis?  But today, Diwali has become a commercial spectacle, where promotions overshadow tradition.

The need for healthier celebration

During Diwali, health concerns often spike due to increased air pollution, skin allergies and burn injuries, largely from firecrackers and chemical-based rangoli colours. Dr Vaibhav Kubal, Consultant in Respiratory Medicine at Holy Family Hospital, notes, “Every year, we see a noticeable increase in hospital admissions, especially due to respiratory issues and firecracker-related injuries.” Likewise, Dr P Venkata Krishnan from Artemis Hospitals advises that those with respiratory conditions stay indoors during peak pollution hours and use air purifiers. Advocating for animal safety, Tarunjeet Rattan, an animal welfare advocate, passionately encourages a cracker-free Diwali. “Firecrackers were never part of our tradition and are harmful to both animals and humans,” she shares, urging people to comfort pets and welcome stray animals seeking shelter.

The Difference Green Crackers Can Make

Green crackers offer a viable alternative to conventional firecrackers. Developed with a reduced chemical composition, these eco-friendly options are designed to produce less smoke, lower noise levels, and minimise harmful emissions. Unlike traditional crackers, which release high levels of pollutants such as carbon dioxide, sulphur oxides, and nitrogen oxides, green crackers contain non-toxic materials that produce a significantly smaller amount of air pollutants.

Embracing Sustainable Gift-Giving

Diwali is traditionally marked by gift exchanges as a gesture of goodwill. To help conserve the environment, opting for sustainable, eco-friendly gifts can make a big difference. Instead of plastic-wrapped sweets or mass-produced decorations, choose alternatives like reusable jute bags, handmade products, plantable stationery, bamboo decor, artisanal candles, or potted plants. Pranay Pasricha, Brand Head of Pakka Limited suggests opting for gifts that offer genuine value and support the environment, such as reusable cloth bags, stainless steel bottles, or items made from agri-residue. “Choosing sustainable gifts not only reduces waste but also reflects a deeper commitment to the planet,” says Pasricha.

Eat Healthy This Diwali

Diwali sweets once captured the festive spirit with a blend of wholesome, homemade ingredients and traditional flavours. Today, however, mass-produced treats often come laden with sugars and unhealthy additives, which can lead to increased health risks. Chef Arokiya Doss, Head Chef at The Malabar Coast, highlights the importance of mindful ingredient choices, saying, “Festive food tempts us with indulgent flavours, but balancing these with wholesome options is entirely possible. Opting for whole grains, legumes, and fresh vegetables adds fibre and reduces calorie density.” Chef Aditi Dixit from CYK Hospitalities recommends “sweets that bring both indulgence and nutrition, like ladoos or halwas made with jaggery or dates instead of refined sugar. Baked gujiyas filled with coconut and dry fruits keep the festive spirit alive with less oil, and ragi or millet-based barfis offer fibre and wholesome ingredients."

Take Care of Mental Health

Diwali offers the comforting sense that some things remain unchanged. Talking about handling this mental burden, Jasneet Kaur, Co-Founder & CEO of Unfazed Therapy Solutions, shared, “While it’s natural to miss loved ones, taking time to appreciate what we have can uplift our mood. Finding ways to celebrate meaningfully, even through community activities or volunteering, can restore a sense of purpose.