Be respectful during the Hindu Diwali celebrations this week

This week the Hindu celebration of Diwali takes place from 6 and 7 November with the Gujarati New Year on 8 November.

This five-day celebration, known as the festival of lights, stretches back more than 2 500 years and is the most auspicious date on the Hindu calendar.

Luewellyn Pillay of the Kelvin Residents Association said the community should prepare for the festivities accordingly and take precautions, especially for your pets.

“As a community, let’s be respectful of both, those observing and those not observing the celebrations and practice tolerance and respect.

“Please exercise caution and be sensitive to neighbours, babies, students, the sick, elderly and animals.”

Pillay continued that it is a celebration and if you wish to share in the energy, don’t be shy to join in with your Hindu neighbours and ask questions.

“As residents and a caring community, let’s also be aware of the privilege we have in sharing our space with abundant birdlife and wildlife.”

He asked the community to please stick to the dates and times allowed for by Johannesburg by-laws and to use approved fireworks, and not banned fireworks which includes big bangs.

“Most times, these are sold bundled in boxes and consumers are unaware of the contents. The warnings generally only state that it may emit sparks.”

He said that it is not only Hindus who will be lighting fireworks over this period as fireworks are for sale at traffic lights and stores to everyone.

“As per Joburg by-laws, fireworks may only be ignited from 7pm to 10pm on the allocated days and may not be ignited by a minor and may not be ignited in the presence of animals.”

Pillay said that Diwali signifies the triumph of good over evil. This is a universal theme that will resonate with most of us. “It is a reminder that even the tiniest light can overpower the deepest darkness.”

Will you be celebrating with fireworks this year? Share your stories with us on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page.