I read it recently that firecracker sales in India have dipped by 30-40%. One of the reasons is the rising manufacturing costs that have pushed prices by 25-30%.

Isn’t that hard to believe?  

Look around your neighbourhood, you will find Diwali being celebrated with more gusto than ever before. Is it the urge to blow up all the hard-earned money by younger generations, or sheer callousness towards little children, elderly people, and the environment?

For me, Deepavali throws up a challenge when it comes to appreciating beauty: silent diyas vs. deafening firecrackers.

And you know which one wins hands-down!

(Pic: internet)