For the last two days, we have been celebrating Deepawali in India. I am sure people are happy at the same time, but I am confused – are we truly happy, or just following the trend, because we’re supposed to? So that we can feel that we are part of the community. In a democratic country like ours, we all have our own perspectives and opinions on how we should celebrate the festival. Since we are talking about Deepawali I will give you a few glimpses from the people, family, friends and community around me.
I live in the northern part of India in the Himalayan range, Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand. We have a tiny society with around 15 to 20 houses, surrounded by empty land. You hardly see 7 to 10 people in a day, as the houses are not very close to each other.
Some houses that have pets are only using lights to decorate the house. They did not get out for a minute, even just to take care of the dog, so that the dogs can feel relaxed and comfortable. Some families celebrated early with small, low-noise fireworks for their children. A few neighbours waited until late midnight to celebrate, using loud firecrackers that must have frightened some animals, birds, and perhaps even annoyed a few humans, too. Some celebrated by going to each other’s houses and shared sweets.
My family lives in Delhi, the capital of India and one of the most polluted cities after Deepawali. Delhi’s geography doesn’t help, it lacks of proper ventilation, trees or a nearby sea to absorb the pollution. I saw some of the WhatsApp posts worried about how fire crackers are affecting dogs and the people, and its noise and smoke are a concern for their health.
Most of my friends. are not in favour of celebrating Deepawali due to the way it has just become a firecracker day and not gathering together, eating and celebrating together. Some of them do not even bother to wish each other. Others feel offended if someone expresses a different view about the festival. It’s strange, sometimes, even when no one says anything hurtful, someone still feels attacked. And nowadays, the easiest way to dismiss others’ opinions on the festival is that you are not a real Hindu.
My point of view only comes with questions, which I am not sure who to ask, but to reflect on myself is: What exactly are we celebrating, and why?
Are we only dog lovers who forget about other animals and birds? Are we also thinking about the people who are suffering from respiratory problems?
Am I not a Hindu if I do not celebrate Deepawali the way others do?
Festivals are meant to bring people together and celebrate peace and prosperity and share happiness; however, I wonder if we are finding happiness in sadness or sadness in happiness?
