Deepawali this year in the city has proved a tad different from the previous years in terms of the volume of the deafening firecrackers being burst to mark the festival of light.
If the traders who sold firecrackers are to be believed their volume of sale of the firecrackers had markedly declined as compared to the past few years. Those striving for eco-friendly Deepawali have sounded elated with the people becoming more and more aware of the imperative of being sensitive to environment while indulging in fun and frolic.
However, on the flipside, this correspondent met many who said unequivocally that Deepawali celebration sans firecrackers is unimaginable. “We know that we must care for the environment, but when the Deepawali night comes the urge to burst sound crackers overpowers us,” said one of those talked to.
Praveen Kumar, who had set up a firecracker stall on Wednesday, said he was distressed having fewer customers this year. “The volume of sale was poor,” he said.
Prakash Sharma, a school teacher, however, looked happy with the development. “I celebrated Diwali with my family, distributing sweets in our neighborhood and exchanging greeting. But one more thing I did.”
“I suggested all my students and relatives to celebrate Diwali in an eco- friendly way. It is time to celebrate the occasion in the traditional way with illumination and exchange of sweets, sans firecrackers,” he added.
He also commented that, “I am happy that things have started moving in the right direction. Moreover, Deepawali needs to be observed in the solemn way in sync with the inner significance of the day,” he added.
Saksham Gupta, a student, said it was good to be with family and closed ones during the festivals such as Deepawali. “But bursting a few sound crackers must not be frowned upon as it has remained an indispensable part of the celebration for many years. This completes the cycle of merriment,” he added.