Guilt-Free Diwali Pleasures
Think of Diwali and immediately think of vivid fireworks and loud noise. But the ‘Festival of Lights’ is about so much more; Diwali is a time for family, fun and new experiences. Be it the sampling of unusual gourmet delights, a trip on the road less travelled or even experimenting with fashion. Here are some fun ways to avoid environmentally damaging and ethically bereft crackers!
Be A Card
Hindu mythology is replete with wonderful tales, but did you know that the tradition of playing cards during Diwali can be traced back to the Goddess Parvati? The age-old legend recounts that the powerful Goddess was playing cards with Lord Shiva and was so happy with her winning streak that she declared that whoever played cards on Diwali night would be blessed with prosperity throughout the year. This is a common custom in north India but not seen much in other parts of the country. It’s high time that we put away those toxic sparklers and bring out a deck of cards. The trick is to keep the games simple and involve the whole family. Play with bottle caps or other small objects and don’t make it about funds; focus on fun!
Great Getaways
Diwali is a government and a school holiday in India so make the most of your days off and fill your festive days with enlightening experiences. Plan a holiday with your friends or family, or even choose to spend time on your own at an exotic destination you have never visited before. If you’re a beach person then head to Goa, Chennai/Pondicherry or the Andamans. Or head off on weekend getaway to a tourist spot near where you live. If you hate the sound of firecrackers, choose a sylvan sanctuary.
The Party
The best way to beat them? Throw a party of epic proportions of course! Let the wine flow along with the kebabs and dance the night away in your festive finery with only a few hundred of your closest family and friends. Firecrackers are expensive, poisonous and bad for everyone involved, except for the manufacturers! Don’t destroy your homeland and our environment for a few minutes of noise. There are so many more ways of lighting up our lives this Diwali, try them!
