During the Hindu religious festival called “Diwali”, people light up lamps, gift one another and explode fire crackers. However, the tradition around the use of fireworks in Diwali remains very strong and carries substantial connotation of the holiday. Beyond their festive role, these colorful and noisy shows make use of fireworks which embody certain values of the Diwali celebration. How do fireworks enhance the celebrations associated with Diwali?
The history of fireworks in Diwali.
There has been a tradition of celebrating these lights by burning fireworks since long ago. Fireworks are said to mark the jubilation of Shri Ram’s reversion for Ayodhya upon vanquishing demon leader Ravana, based on Hindu tradition. People of Ayodhya welcomed their dear prince by pouring oil lamps, blazes of light and the thunderous echoes of firecrackers.
The Significance of Fireworks
Fireworks play a significant role in Diwali for several reasons:
1. Triumph of Light over Darkness:
The essential theme of Diwali is about light overcoming darkness and goodness coming through. Fireworks represent the triumph of good and light over darkness and wickedness, respectively.
2. Festive Joy and Celebration:
The use of fire works during diwali adds more joy to the experience. Colorful fireworks in the nights skies add an extra fun touch to this event.
3. Spiritual Significance:
To many people, lighting the fireworks is a way of worshipping the gods like goddess Lakshmi who has the power of wealth and fortune. This way is considered as one of the ways of blessing for prosper in the upcoming new year.
4. Illuminating the Night:
The night sky is turned into an attractive picture by the Diwali fireworks that light it up. Therefore, this is considered as a medium for celebrating the light within self as well as leading one on the right track.
5. Historical and Cultural Tradition:
Fireworks is an age old custom celebrated during Diwali in India. The art has been passed down intergenerationally and there has been continuous refinement in the making of fireworks over the period.
Types of Diwali Fireworks
Diwali fireworks come in various types, each with its unique characteristics and symbolism:
- Firecrackers (Patakhe): The most common type of fireworks is that of the firecracker during Diwali. The fire-crackers come in different sizes and shape, small “phuljadis” to large and resounding “anars”. The crackers have been associated with the illuminations that showcase the merriment and joyfulness surrounding Diwali holiday.
- Sparklers (Phuljhadi): Sparklers are small fireworks, where sparks and sparkles are seen upon ignition. This is a common symbolism of light and cheer for Diwali festivity.
- Aerial Fireworks (Aakash Kandil): These aerial fireworks are meant to be shot up into the air during the nighttime. They form incredible views of colourful light shows that look like an array of stars raining down. The display of these fireworks is impressive and portrays victory against darkness.
- Flowerpots (Anars): It is so called flowerpot because as if there were blooms in them. They give an admirable flash while on fire but only the Diwali happiness in that moment.
- Rockets (Rokets): The rockets are sent to the sky and burst into beautiful shapes of hues. These represent the ascent of the spiritual spirit towards spiritual illumination.
Fireworks Safety and Environmental Concerns
Fireworks are an indispensable part of every Diwali but one cannot ignore the safety and ecological aspects. Be cautious with fireworks so as not to cause accidents, injuries and pollution. One should put on safety goggles while lighting them up at least fifteen feet away.
Diwali, with its symbolism and the traditions of fireworks, continue to remain relevant even today. Such dances signify victory of light against darkness, joyfulness of goodness versus evilness, and happiness of those celebrating this conquest.
The symbolism and tradition of fireworks during Diwali are a testament to the festival’s enduring legacy. They represent the triumph of light over darkness, the celebration of good over evil, and the joy that illuminates the hearts of those who celebrate.
As the night sky comes alive with colorful explosions, Diwali fireworks not only light up the physical world but also kindle the inner light of hope, positivity, and unity in the hearts of people.