Does Diwali Still Spark Joy, or Just Smoke?

Imagine this: You sit down to make a vibrant, eco-friendly rangoli at home—bright colors, organic powders, a beautiful symbol of a ‘green’ Diwali. Now, imagine stepping outside and facing the thick, grey smog of Delhi's streets. The question is: Can small gestures like a green rangoli make a dent in the reality we see just outside our doors or are they just surface-level solutions?

In recent years, more people have started using “eco-friendly” products for Diwali. Shops around the country are filled with items like natural rangoli powders, biodegradable decorations, organic sweets, and clay diyas. The idea is to keep traditions alive while reducing harm to the environment. For example, green rangolis made from rice powder, turmeric, and flower petals are both biodegradable and beautifully colorful. Many people see these eco-friendly choices as a way to show their support for a cleaner Diwali, reflecting a growing trend toward reducing environmental impact.

These small, easy actions feel satisfying because they’re manageable—it’s easier to change what we buy than to change our daily habits. A beautiful, biodegradable rangoli or some eco-friendly lights give a quick, visible result, making us feel like we’re doing something good for the planet. Unlike big, complicated environmental issues, these actions feel personal and doable, letting us feel proactive and environmentally aware without needing to make major lifestyle changes. Here’s the uncomfortable truth: not everything branded as “eco-friendly” is beneficial for the environment. It’s like putting a band-aid on a much deeper problem. Are we just taking the easy way out, opting for small, comfortable actions rather than demanding real change?

Moreover, despite our awareness of the pollution caused by traditional practices, many continue to celebrate Diwali in the same way. In Spite of? the ban on firecrackers, the sound of explosions filled the night sky, carrying on till the early hours. It was as if the city chose to ignore the warnings, the ban, and even the suffocating haze that followed. Are we so attached to tradition that we’re willing to ignore the impact it has on our health, or do we just not see the consequences right in front of us?

It's important to reflect on how we can honor our traditions while also adapting them to modern environmental challenges. What does it mean to celebrate in a way that aligns with our values of sustainability? We have the power to reimagine our rituals. The challenge lies in creating a new narrative around Diwali that celebrates innovation alongside tradition. By embracing new, eco-conscious practices, we can create a Diwali that honors our heritage while ensuring a healthier future for generations to come. It’s time to consider whether holding tightly to tradition is worth the cost to our planet and our health, and to find ways to celebrate that truly reflect our commitment to a sustainable future.

Jiya Wadhwa

Intern - MIGS Global Consulting Pvt Ltd.

Student - Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) Delhi University