The day after Diwali, newspapers are full of reports about the festival. They don't feature the celebrations or the joy of the festivities, but focus almost exclusively on the issue of pollution. How noisy was the festival, as compared to previous years, and to what extent did it contaminate our already wretched air quality. There can be no denying the fact that Diwali is a deeply polluting event. It is dirty, noisy, smelly, smoky and unpredictably long. It is also true that pollution is perhaps the single most important health issue that bedevils modern urban living. Is it time to bid farewell to firecrackers and usher in a greener Diwali? In a larger sense, should older rituals become more sensitive to the needs of today and modify themselves accordingly?
It is interesting to note the difference in the language of the coverage before and after the event. Before Diwali, we see an elaborate build-up, with supplements stuffed with ads, colourful costumes, pages after pages of 'gift ideas', tempting shots of food items; Diwali is treated as the premier festive event of the year, surrounded with almost sickeningly sweet exuberance. In a variety of ways, we are exhorted to celebrate this festival with even more gusto, but even as that happens, we are simultaneously chided for indulging in what for most is the primary sign of the celebration - setting off crackers. Read more
Source : timesofindia.indiatimes.com
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