There was a time when Diwali was a festival of pure joy and celebration time. The occasion was full of excitement and joy. The preparation for the festival begins way in ahead than the schedule day. Cleaning, gifting, crackers all were done in advance. I remember the childhood days, putting load of crackers in sunlight to make them dry for louder noise and sounds. Those were a different era, but with the time and as we grow older the craze for festival faded. Yesterday we done with the Diwali celebration. There was everything, crackers. Rangoli, sweets. But there is something that was missing making it little bit dull occasion.
At first I think it is happening with me, but I noticed the same feeling among my friends and few of my relatives. There are many reasons that may account to these changes. The meaning of Diwali can evolve from a holiday of gifts and sweets to a more profound experience, with a greater emphasis on the emotional bonds and shared moments with loved ones. As we age, responsibilities change, and the celebrations evolve to reflect our new priorities. The emphasis can move from elaborate, external displays like firecrackers to more internal, personal experiences like spending quiet time with family or enjoying a simple, peaceful evening. Earlier we used to be the players to make Diwali happening, but as we grow older, we are now coach to assist and guide the new generation.
There is always a risk while bursting crackers. My Dad used to be with me in my childhood days. And the role shift has change woth time. Yesterday I prevented a major accident as one of my nephew were almost burned his hands, while lighting a cracker. Such thing is common. The kids were not alert as an adult could get. So the role has changed and we are now playing the role of watchful eye. The perspevtive has changed and so does people outlook. The excitement around receiving gifts can be replaced by a greater value placed on experiences like making sweets together or simply enjoying each other's company. Some may feel that the festival has become too commercial, shifting the focus away from its traditional, spiritual roots. ✨️
I saw many kids were busy shooting videos and taking selfies. They were more likely to post them in their social media account. The social media too play a crucial factor in changing the traditional outlook. New traditions are emerging, such as online greetings and digital donations, demonstrating how the festival adapts to a modern lifestyle. Still I feel the fundamental meaning of Diwali as a festival of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil remains constant across different faiths and communities. Noone could change the true aspect of the festival.
In good faith - Peace!!
