The festival of Diwali is barely a few days away. This year the celebration of Deepavali, the festival of lights will be a little different since we are still in the phase of coronavirus pandemic. Meanwhile, the preparations in individual homes to clean and decorate homes have already begun. But this time as we also battle the lockdown crisis which left so many people financially crippled, there is more emphasis laid on going vocal for local. The initiative prompted by current government is all about supporting local products and promoting them, helping them to grow rather than relying on imported goods. This time, several artists and locals have thus made eco-friendly products which definitely ensure safe celebrations of the festive season. If you are still unaware about the kind of local products that are being made and are available for sale, we have got you a list of few items which you buy. You can invest in homemade snacks and handloom products to have a Vocal for Local Diwali celebration.
Cowdung Diyas
While earthen diyas are very common to be lit during Diwali, this time a lot of diyas made with cowdung have been launched in the market. As per reports, to counter with the Chinese lights which usually take preference, over 33 crore cowdung diyas will be introduced in the market. Locals in Rajasthan, Punjab and other several states have been making cowdung diyas on a large scale.
Check Some Pics Here:
Rajasthan: A group of women are preparing eco-friendly 'diyas' with cow dung in Jaipur.
"Cow dung is believed to be pure in our tradition.Over 100 women are making 1000 pieces each day. Made in China material pollute environment but they'll decompose easily,"says a woman(20.10) pic.twitter.com/PJUXXjraVx
— ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2020
Bamboo Diyas
A self-help women's group from Tripura is making bamboo diyas this time. These are one-of-a-kind diyas and candles which are available in different range of prices. Made completely out of bamboo, they are eco-friendly and in great demand currently.
Here are The Pics:
Tripura: A self-help women group from Sipahijala made bamboo 'diyas' that were launched by CM Biplab Kumar Deb, yesterday.
Dipali Paul, member of the self-help group says, "There is a huge demand for our products. We made 'diyas' of various price range." pic.twitter.com/3f9UN18WIw
— ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2020
Seed Crackers and Sweets
This time with the deteriorating air pollution and the effect on COVID-19 infection, many states have banned the use of firecrackers during Diwali. The festival of lights sees many firecrackers but this time, you can enjoy with seed crackers instead. An interesting initiative by The Gramart Project from Madhya Pradesh, sees rural women making crackers from waste paper which have seeds in them. The idea is to 'plant' these crackers and watch them grow. Designed just to look like regular crackers, they are laced with different seeds. They are also making sweets in the same fashion. You can click here to place your orders.
Eco-Friendly Decorative Items
Potters and artisans are making decorative items along with diyas for eco-friendly celebrations of Diwali. These include earthen pots, showpieces, decorative pieces which you can add to your home as part of Diwali decor. Diwali 2020 Decoration Ideas: From Beautiful Paper Lamps to DIY Eco-Friendly Hangings, 5 Things to Try at Home And Bring in the Festive Spirit (Watch Videos).
See The Pics Here:
Rajasthan: Potters & sellers of decorative items in Jaipur hope that #Diwali will benefit their business which has been by #COVID19. A seller, Siyaram, says, "People are boycotting Chinese products. We make 'diyas' & sell. Our Diwali will be good if people purchase our 'diyas'." pic.twitter.com/XFP7wTs585
— ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2020
If you just step outside in your local markets, you will find many such sellers who are making newer products as great alternatives to Chinese products. You must definitely buy these diyas, lights and decorations and also make their Diwali a happy one. Let's have a conscious celebration which also brings a smile on everyone's faces.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 07, 2020 07:47 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).