India Illuminates for Diwali Amid Pollution Challenges

India celebrated Diwali on October 23, 2023, with vibrant festivities and traditional cheer, despite significant air pollution challenges in the national capital. Celebrations spanned the country, from the rain-drenched streets of Chennai to the illuminated markets of Delhi and Bengaluru. The day featured fireworks in Mumbai, earthen lamps at Srinagar’s Ghanta Ghar, and countless diyas adorning homes in Punjab, all while the air quality in Delhi deteriorated.

Celebrations Across Major Cities

In Delhi, buildings shimmered with lights as residents marked the festival with grandeur. Although the Supreme Court approved the use of only certified eco-friendly firecrackers, many neighborhoods lit up with fireworks throughout the night. Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent out warm wishes, expressing hope that the “festival of lights illuminates our lives with harmony, happiness and prosperity.” Yet, the celebrations were overshadowed by worsening air quality, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index soaring to 345, up from 326 the previous day. Officials from the Central Pollution Control Board warned that levels could enter the “severe” category in the coming days.

In Tamil Nadu, the spirit of Deepavali was undaunted by heavy rain. Residents began their day early, donning new clothes, exchanging sweets, and lighting fireworks, with streets adorned with lamps and intricate rangolis.

Bengaluru’s markets, including KR Market and Chickpet, thrived as people flocked to purchase sweets, flowers, and decorative items. In response to the Supreme Court’s directive on firecrackers, the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board enforced restrictions, allowing the use of firecrackers only between 20:00 and 22:00 on October 21 and 22. Additionally, Bengaluru’s Traffic Police increased personnel to manage congestion around temples and shopping areas. Emergency units were set up in local hospitals to address potential firecracker injuries.

Community and Compassion in the Festivities

The festive atmosphere was palpable across Punjab and Haryana, where families illuminated their homes with lights and laughter. Temples and gurdwaras were filled with devotees, and markets bustled with last-minute shoppers. In a notable act of compassion, the Haryana Police celebrated with orphans and the homeless, emphasizing that “this Diwali is not just about lights, but also about human compassion and shared smiles,” according to a police statement.

In flood-affected Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami joined residents in Sahastradhara to mark Diwali, offering reassurances about ongoing rehabilitation efforts. “Diwali is not just a festival of lights, but of compassion and unity,” Dhami said, as he inspected reconstruction initiatives in Dehradun.

In Kolkata, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee prayed at the Kalighat Temple in observance of Kali Puja, which coincides with Diwali. She also shared a video of a devotional song she composed, extending her greetings to the people of West Bengal.

Tripura saw a unique blend of tradition and renewal as Chief Minister Manik Saha inaugurated a three-day Diwali celebration at the ancient Maa Tripura Sundari temple. Thousands of devotees participated in the ‘Kalyan Arati’, with Saha noting the government’s efforts to promote spiritual tourism in the region.

As India embraces the joy of Diwali, the contrasting issues of pollution and community resilience underscore the complexity of modern celebrations in the country.