Lighthouse

Author(s): Udayvallabhvijay
Publisher: Pragna Prabodh Parivar

Page 79

For the time being we may restrict ourselves only to the aspect of safety of living beings. Even from this angle, this subject needs serious deliberation. Whether it is Diwali, a marriage ceremony, winning of a cricket match or tournament or election results or any such other event or reason, the ill-effects of crackers apply to all of them in similar manner. If a child from his / her very tender age is persuaded not to burst crackers even by offering incentives, one can avoid the above ill-effects of crackers. A child may be young today and may need incentives to be convinced. However, when he grows up in understanding he will keep away from crackers without any persuasion or incentive. Thus dharma is not opposed to anyone's happiness. On the contrary, it is supplementary and protective for the happiness of all. Query: The issue is not limited to fire crackers. The whole issue is about the overall constitution of Dharma. Dharma prohibits fire crackers, balloons, celebration of Holi, kite flying, dance parties, celebrating navratri, celebrating 31st Night etc. etc. Dharma and culture hold red signal against all these. Is it an offence to seek enjoyment in life? Explanation: Dharma is never anti-happiness. On the contrary, it is an object of happiness and a bridge towards happiness. However, the restrictions that are mentioned about Holi celebration etc. need to be understood with an open mind. Holi : Talking of Holi, let us understand this from the angle of humanism rather than the angle of religion. Holi revelries circle around playing with colours and playing with water. Colour used in Holi is very minute in quantity. However, people use up huge quantity of water that would normally
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Lighthouse