Message of tradition, culture and environmental protection
In the race for modernity, we are gradually forgetting our traditions and cultural heritage. The tradition of lighting earthen lamps on the sacred festival of Diwali is also fading away. They have been replaced by electronic lights, garlands, and other artificial illumination.
This change is not only affecting our cultural traditions but is also having far-reaching consequences on the social and economic levels. To protect the environment and preserve our cultural heritage, it is essential that we pledge to light earthen lamps and avoid firecrackers on Diwali.
The festival of Diwali is deeply connected with earthen lamps. It is a festival deeply rooted in our culture and faith. It is believed that the people of Ayodhya welcomed Lord Shri Ram back to Ayodhya after completing fourteen years of exile by lighting lamps in their homes. Since then, the tradition of celebrating Deepotsav on the new moon day of Kartik month has been prevalent. Lighting earthen lamps is not only a religious tradition, but also a symbol of our cultural identity and connection to nature.
The allure of artificial lighting has grown rapidly over the past two decades. In the glare of modernity, we are drifting away from our traditional lifestyles.
The use of colorful electric lights and garlands has increased during Diwali, while loud firecrackers have exacerbated the problem of air and noise pollution.
This has the greatest impact on the environment, animals, birds, the elderly, children, and people suffering from respiratory problems. This change also has an important social and economic aspect. The traditional occupation of potters, who make clay lamps, is gradually being affected.
There was a time when people would place orders for diyas with potters weeks before Diwali. Their families would work day and night to craft the diyas. Even though their income wasn’t very high, they certainly had a passion for keeping their art and tradition alive.
Today, the situation has changed. The decline in demand for clay lamps has dampened the enthusiasm of potters. Many families are forced to abandon their ancestral profession and take up other occupations. On Diwali, many homes now only symbolically light a few clay lamps, while most decorations are done with electronic lights and garlands.
We must understand that our small gesture can make a big difference in the lives of an artisan’s family. By purchasing clay lamps, we not only preserve our culture but also support the livelihoods of local artisans.
The tradition of lighting earthen lamps has its own unique beauty and significance. The flame of a mustard oil lamp brings a special sense of peace and intimacy to the mind.
Artificial light cannot match the simplicity and natural beauty of the lamp. Earthen lamps are linked to local resources and traditional crafts. However, to protect the environment, oil, wicks, and other resources should be used judiciously when using them.
Our culture isn’t limited to lighting lamps. It also includes cleaning homes, preparing delicious food, sharing sweets, giving gifts to neighbors and those in need, and maintaining mutual love and harmony. The true joy of Diwali lies in bringing happiness to our homes and the lives of others.
Today’s young generation needs to be especially aware of this. The responsibility of passing on culture and traditions to the next generation rests on their shoulders.
They should prioritize earthen lamps over electronic decorations. Awareness campaigns should be conducted through schools, social organizations, and local organizations, raising awareness about the importance of earthen lamps and environmental protection.
Diwali is a festival of light, love, harmony, and positivity. Instead of turning it into a festival of pollution and ostentation, it should be celebrated with simplicity and sensitivity.
The smoke and noise from firecrackers not only pollute the environment but also cause problems for many animals. Therefore, we should strive to celebrate a clean and safe Diwali by staying away from firecrackers.
This Diwali, let us all pledge to light earthen lamps in our homes, purchase them from local potters, avoid firecrackers, and spread joy in the lives of those in need. Earthen lamps are symbols of our culture, tradition, labor, and self-reliance. By adopting them, we can pass on our heritage to the next generation.
Remember, the real light of Diwali is not in the electric lights, but in the flame of earthen lamps, mutual love and the light of humanity.
May everyone have light
Dr. Priyanka Saurabh
Saturday, November 7, 2026