Once again, it's festival time, and the excitement of celebration pervades the atmosphere. Along with this celebration, comes the fear of noise from bursting of firecrackers. For some, the festive sounds can become a source of anxiety, bringing back memories of sleepless nights and feelings of panic.
Diwali celebrations across Goa are marked by the tradition of burning effigies of the demon king Narkasura, which has been a source of controversy due to the playing of eardrum-piercing music on the streets.
The effigies represent the triumph of good over evil, and the festivities are accompanied by lively dance and music, often reaching above-normal decibel levels as the effigies are consigned to flames.
The loud unreasonable music poses a challenge to the sick, elderly and the little ones who cannot voice their discomfort. It may be that the Narkasura celebrations happen for just one night, but the impact of the loud sounds on people's health and well-being is lasting.
In reality, police presence is just a formality and is more like an empty promise, merely to maintain the appearance of order.
Year after year, the tormenting narrative remains unchanged, echoing the same struggles and frustrations that linger beneath the surface of festive joy. Those called to maintain order, especially the police, are nowhere to be seen around on the night of the Narkasura celebrations.
In reality, police presence is just a formality and is more like an empty promise, merely to maintain the appearance of order. Whether it is their presence or absence, both create a haunting disconnect, leaving the helpless in the hands of the demon.
It is time that we recognise that joy for one person can be agony for another, and consider this joyous occasion as an opportunity to create a more inclusive environment — one that embraces the needs of all.
If Diwali is about celebrating the victory of good over evil, then it is the right time to admit we are allowing the evil of excessive noise to manifest in our midst. Allowing the demon of noise to prevail, is allowing darkness to control our lives.
The government has a big role to play in shaping the way festivals are celebrated by limiting the use of firecrackers and avoiding loud music.
The government has a big role to play in shaping the way festivals are celebrated by limiting the use of firecrackers and avoiding loud music. It is duty-bound to create an atmosphere of empathy and consideration for others, encouraging people to celebrate the festival respectfully.
The festivity, filled with loud music and explosive sounds, can overshadow the quiet solemnity attached to the celebrations that many believe is essential for honouring our gods and goddesses.
Diwali represents traditional values of hope, renewal and the victory of good over evil. However, in modern times, the focus on elements such as fireworks and noisy celebrations has taken precedence, more to assert our social status, overshadowing the true essence of the festival.
Sometime from now, our homes will be lit with diyas that will light up our homes. This is the right occasion to also enlighten our minds and hearts to learn about the true meaning of Diwali. Bursting firecrackers was never an ancient tradition. Diwali was restricted to lighting diyas.
The deafening noise and bright flashes of fireworks can be distressing for us, but spare a thought for the animals. The explosive sounds can disorient them, leaving stray dogs, in particular, feeling bewildered and scared.
As we celebrate, it’s important to remember that our short-lived happiness can have unintended consequences for those who share our lives and spaces. This awareness can inspire a profound sense of compassion, urging us to consider ways to reduce noise pollution and create a more harmonious environment for all beings.
While there are many who will pledge to celebrate Diwali without bursting firecrackers, there are others who take a pledge for a "green" Diwali. These are the people who honour the spirit of the festival. Theirs is the Diwali that reflects hope for a brighter and harmonious future for all.