Modern pyrotechnics have elevated Diwali fireworks displays into spectacular spectacles. Public firework shows vie to outdo each other in terms of size, duration and special effects; families compete against one another to put on the largest display possible in their local communities.
Yet, despite its air pollution impacts, banning firecrackers would be foolish. Such small traditions uphold cultural values and identity at a time when such things are sorely needed.
Origins
Diwali fireworks capture the core values of Diwali: joy, unity and the triumph of good over evil. Their multi-sensory experience also stimulates hearing, touch and smell (with subtle gunpowder scents lingering around). As such, despite recent calls by various governments and courts to reduce air pollution around this time, fireworks display has long been celebrated and enjoyed during Diwali celebrations.
Diwali marks numerous events, deities and personalities; it is most frequently associated with Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after exile in Ayodhya and the triumph of good over evil. Additionally, this festival honors Lakshmi the goddess of wealth and Ganesha the god of wisdom who removes obstacles – as well as regional traditions which associate Diwali with other deities like Vishnu, Shiva Durga Kali Yami Yama and Hanuman.
Symbolism
Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance. People decorate their homes with special lamps (diyas), exchange gifts with family and friends and feast at home during this time. On Diwali’s third day – as Lord Rama returns home after vanquishing Ravana – families often display colorful patterns made out of powders, sand and flowers called Rangoli to welcome Lakshmi (Lady Lakshmi) while praying for prosperity.
India and countries with Indian diasporas celebrate Diwali with varied traditions, but its spirit remains consistent. Firecrackers play a pivotal role in these celebrations as they symbolize joyous celebration and victory over evil; replicating Rama’s journey home using earthen lamps lit during his victory over demons. But as modernization increases pollution and noise pollution levels it is wise to choose less harmful options such as LED or noiseless fireworks for this celebration.
Noise
Diwali fireworks provide us all with delight, yet for infants or those with sensitive hearing, their bright lights and explosions may cause anxiety and excitement – however sound pressure levels can reach up to 150 decibels, potentially leading to permanent hearing damage.
Animals that are used as subjects in fireworks displays are also vulnerable to the noise from fireworks, especially birds that have become used to natural sounds and are easily disturbed by an artificial noise like fireworks. Their unpredictability can cause stress or even lead to their demise.
Firecracker noise can also contribute to air pollution. According to scientists, when fireworks are launched, air pollutants such as PM2.5, oxides of sulphur and nitrogen, and particulates skyrocket, and do not return back to normal until two days post festival. Such particles irritate lungs and may lead to pulmonary embolisms in infants; additionally they can be inhaled into human systems and cause cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
Environmental Impact
Diwali fireworks emit harmful chemicals that contribute to environmental degradation, harming ecosystems and forested areas alike. Chemicals like particulate matter, sulphur dioxide and nitric oxide enter the atmosphere where they combine with oxygen and water molecules to form acid rain which damages aquatic and forested environments as well as child laborers who come in contact with toxic substances in firecracker production.
New Delhi’s air pollution levels are already alarming year-round, and Diwali only makes matters worse. AQI (Air Quality Index) numbers rapidly escalate within hours of Diwali festivities and don’t return to normal until two or three days post festival celebration.
Noise pollution is another significant issue during Diwali, as loud noises can damage hearing and be especially painful for newborns. Furthermore, fireworks dumping causes soil pollution while massive amounts of dry waste such as paper, plastic and firework covers are generated during Diwali which take too long to decompose into soil pollution.