Lifestyle, Environment, and Animal Rights: A Reflection this Festive Season

The festive fervor in India is a sensory spectacle — from the golden hues of lamps that twinkle like a constellation on Earth, to the aroma of time-honored dishes that waft through lanes, evoking memories of yesteryears, to the echoing laughter and chatter of families reuniting, bridging distances and differences. Streets come alive with bustling markets, houses are transformed with intricate decorations, and every corner resonates with songs and dances that celebrate our rich heritage. But, while we are ensnared in this annual revelry, there is a subtler, darker narrative that silently unfolds in the shadows, often overshadowed by the luminosity of our festivities.

The environment, our silent sustainer, bears the brunt of our celebrations. Rivers get choked with pollutants and residues, skies get clouded with the smoke of firecrackers, and our landfills burgeon with the aftermath of our disposable culture — be it plastic decorations, packaging, or wasted food. The ecological cycle, a delicate balance, gets disrupted as the air we breathe becomes thick with pollutants.

Parallelly, the animal kingdom experiences a different kind of festival. The stray dog cowers at the deafening blasts of crackers, birds fly in panic, disoriented by the sudden lights and noises, and livestock face their grim fate as demand for festive delicacies surge. Even the gentle cow, revered in our culture, isn’t spared as it often ingests plastic remnants, mistaking them for food.

As we don the finest attires and partake in age-old traditions, it’s essential to pause and reflect: Are our celebrations truly in harmony with the ethos of gratitude, reverence, and unity that our festivals inherently champion? While our traditions are the pillars of our cultural identity, they also come with the responsibility to evolve and adapt, ensuring they embody respect for all life forms and the planet that nurtures us.

The Crackling Debate: Firecrackers
Every year, we light up the sky with firecrackers, creating a spectacle of colors and sounds. But in this symphony of joy, the muffled cries of street animals, especially dogs, birds, and other pets, are often forgotten. The noise can cause extreme distress and even permanent hearing damage.

Environmentally, the remnants of these firecrackers choke our waterways, while the smoke contributes to air pollution, worsening the already dire quality of air in many Indian cities.

Alternative: How about switching to light and sound shows? Communities can organize laser light displays which are both visually stunning and environmentally friendly.

The Dairy Dilemma
Festivities in India often mean a spike in dairy consumption. From sweets to drinks, dairy is a pivotal ingredient. While this is a cultural practice, we must remember the dairy industry’s impact on the environment and the inhumane conditions under which cattle are kept.

Alternative: With the rise of veganism and plant-based diets, there’s an abundance of dairy substitutes available. Almond, soy, and oat milk can be excellent alternatives to cow’s milk, and many traditional sweets are now available in vegan versions.

The Fashion Factor
The festive season invariably means new clothes and accessories. But the fast fashion industry is notorious for its environmental and ethical malpractices. The demand surge often means more exploitation of workers, increased waste, and harm to the environment.

Alternative: Opt for sustainable brands or wear traditional handlooms and textiles that support local artisans. Even better, repurpose older outfits, trade clothes with friends, or shop second-hand.

Gifting – The Thought That Counts
Exchanging gifts is a treasured tradition. But often, these gifts are commercially produced items that have a massive carbon footprint, or they may end up as clutter in someone’s home.

Alternative: Gift experiences rather than material goods. Concert tickets, art classes, or even a day at an eco-resort can be memorable. If you prefer tangible gifts, choose local crafts, sustainable products, or even homemade plant-based delicacies.

India’s festive spirit is unparalleled and by making more informed choices, we can ensure that our festivities are a cause for joy, not just for us, but for our environment and the countless creatures that cohabit this land with us.

This festive season, let’s pledge to celebrate responsibly, keeping in mind the delicate balance of our environment and the rights of all beings. After all, what’s a celebration if it brings harm to others?