During Diwali festivities, discussions about pollution from firecrackers have become increasingly common. Many have voiced concerns over the impact of firecrackers on air quality, with some suggesting that resources like the oil used in traditional diyas (oil lamps) could be redirected to help those in need.
In response, Pandit Dhiren Krishna Shastri openly criticised those who question these practices, defending the celebration of Diwali and the significance of firecrackers and diyas.
Shastri pointed out that firecrackers are also widely used during other celebrations, such as New Year’s festivities, without facing similar backlash. He questioned the selective criticism that seems to focus predominantly on Hindu festivals, emphasising that environmental concerns are not raised as vigorously during non-Hindu celebrations.
Shastri expressed frustration, saying, “Whenever there is a Hindu festival, people start giving lessons. On Holi, they say water will be wasted. On Diwali, they claim pollution will increase. Firecrackers are also set off on New Year’s, but no one questions pollution then. These hypocritical comments won’t work anymore.”
Further, Shastri pointed out that no objections are raised when celebrations occur for other religions. He questioned why the focus seems to shift toward environmental concerns whenever festivals associated with Sanatan Dharma, such as Diwali, take place.
“We don’t say anything when New Year’s is celebrated on January 1 with firecrackers across the world. Why do you point a finger when the festival is associated with Sanatan Dharma?” Shastri asked, underscoring his belief in the need for equal respect for all cultural practices.
In preparation for this year’s Deepotsav in Ayodhya, Shastri also shared that approximately 28 lakh diyas would be used to illuminate the ghats and the banks of the Saryu River.
He emphasised the cultural and spiritual significance of the occasion, especially as this Deepotsav will be the first since the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Mandir, a historic moment for devotees of Lord Ram.
“This is the first time that Raghunath ji (deity) is no longer in the tent and is established in the temple. This Deepotsav, with 28 lakh diyas lighting up the ghats along the Saryu River, is a grand event for the devotees,” Shastri said.
Supporting these efforts, Uttar Pradesh Minister Jaiveer Singh highlighted the grandeur planned for this year’s Deepotsav in Ayodhya. This celebration, Singh said, is special as it follows the Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Mandir, with every effort made to enhance the event’s spiritual and cultural magnificence.
According to Singh, new records are expected to be set this year as the grand spectacle unfolds in Ayodhya. “This is the first Deepotsav following the Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Mandir, and every effort has been made to give the program both grandeur and divinity,” Singh stated, adding that Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat would also be attending the event.
This year’s Deepotsav, accompanied by the lighting of 28 lakh diyas along the Saryu River, marks a significant cultural moment, emphasising Ayodhya’s spiritual heritage and the devotion of millions.
For Shastri and many others, the celebration of Diwali and the Deepotsav transcends environmental debates, reflecting a deep-rooted cultural identity and pride in Sanatan Dharma that they wish to honour without undue criticism.
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