Away from the boom and bang of fire crackers, these celebs have decided to embrace a quieter Diwali
Away from the boom and bang of fire crackers, these celebs have decided to embrace a quieter Diwali
Colourful rangolis on the doorsteps, diyas burning at windowsills, streets lit up with fairy lights and the sudden shower of sparks from a firework — Diwali has made its presence felt in the city. The mood is that of jubilation, wherever you step out this weekend. However, while B-town is all ready to light up this Diwali, many have decided to boycott the noisy firecrackers that invariably petrify animals.
Anushka Sharma started a Twitter campaign last year called #PAWsitive Diwali, wherein she asked her fans not to burst crackers. She’s back again this year to spread the message with her labrador named Dude. And she’s not the only one with this view. We speak to celebs who have made the silent Diwali a ritual year after year:
Varun Sharma Lighting up firecrackers was the highlight of the festive season for me as as kid, until I ended up bursting crackers on my friend’s hand. That memory is still vivid after all these years. Ever since, I haven’t burst a single cracker.
Divya Khosla Kumar The fireworks are a sight at Marine Drive and Juhu during the month of Diwali. A few years ago, I decided to visit Juhu beach to witness the fireworks. There were hordes of people bursting crackers through the evening. I decided to head back home after having enjoyed the view. While I was walking towards my car, I noticed four to five stray dogs huddled up below my car, scared with the booming noise that these crackers made. That’s when I realised that animals have to bear the brunt because of us. They lead a life of terror because we want to enjoy our festivities. I was so hurt after noticing the look on the dog’s faces that I have never burst cracker since.
Gautam Rode When I was in the ninth standard, a kid from my neighbourhood damaged one of his eyes while bursting crackers. Through the years, I too have consciously reduced bursting firecrackers. I have been extremely careful and even lecture my friends and family against firecrackers. I prefer using diyas to light up my Diwali.
Shivin Narang My big Diwali moment was when I played a key character in Veera. The show connected with the classes as well as with the masses. It made me a household name and gave my life a 360 degree turn. This Diwali like every year, I am headed to Delhi to celebrate with my family and friends. We have taken to celebrating a silent diwali without crackers for a while now. It’s more about decorating the house and buying new clothes and gifts for us.
Tannishtha Chatterjee Some of my happiest memories during Diwali have been with my family. I have never been fond of crackers that make a lot of noise, especially because I grew up with two dogs and was always aware of the trauma it caused them. But I love candles, diyas and the beautiful fireworks that light up. I’ve had a lot of fun celebrating with my family over the years.
My sister and parents are in town so I will spend Diwali with my family. We will be celebrating Kali Puja according to Bengali tradition. I also performed the the chaya bati tradition for bhoot chaturdashi and will follow it up with a celebratory meal tomorrow. I’m looking forward to gorge on Bengali mishtis.
Rashami Desai The fondest Diwali moment was when I purchased my own house, got a pet dog and named him Oreo. It gave me a rare sense of contentment and independence. I felt so liberated. This year I am busy shooting for my new show so I’ll celebrate Diwali with the cast and crew, but I will try and spend some quality time with my close friends too.
—With inputs from Sameena Razzaq
