Fireworks have no significance for Diwali

ACCORDING to the article on last week’s Tribune

Herald front page, some Hindu parents complained over a poster that called for a more pet-friendly Diwali celebration. Ironically, days before Diwali, there were similar calls from the SA Hindu Maha Sabha as well.

Were these parents also offended by the Sabha’s similar call?

The use and abuse of fireworks is most prominent during Diwali. Year after year Diwali becomes an orgy of horrendous bangs which brings nothing but trauma to animals, birdlife, babies and children. Lord Krishna, whom Hindus revere as an incarnation of God, says in the 16th chapter of the Bhagavad Gita that those who do not practice tranquillity, cleanliness and compassion for all life forms are demonic in nature.

Where are the tranquillity, cleanliness and compassion when burning fireworks?

Mahatma Gandhi, in his speech on Diwali, said that if he had his way he would ban fireworks (reprint of Gandhi’s Diwali speech, 1955 edition of Indian Opinion).

The tradition of burning fireworks may be a few hundred years old that began when China traded basic fireworks with India, but it is a useless, man-made tradition which has been promoted for the sake of making money and brings absolutely no authenticity or religious significance to Diwali.

Hindus who burn fireworks are going against the command of peace, tranquillity and care for all life forms and are thus bringing insult to the teachings of Hinduism.

KHUSHAL RAMLAKHAN