In Lucknow, India, millions enthusiastically observed Diwali, the annual Hindu festival of lights, amidst growing concerns about escalating air pollution in the country. Vibrant multicolored lights adorned homes and streets, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.
A particularly awaited spectacle unfolded at the Saryu River in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, the birthplace of the revered deity Ram. As dusk settled on Saturday, devotees ignited an astounding 2.22 million oil lamps, sustaining their brilliance for 45 minutes while the air resonated with Hindu religious hymns. This remarkable feat set a new Guinness World Record, surpassing the previous year’s display of 1.5 million earthen lamps. The Guinness Book of World Records recognized the achievement and presented a certificate to Yogi Adityanath, the state’s top elected official.
A colossal effort involving over 24,000 volunteers, predominantly college students, contributed to organizing this record-breaking event, as acknowledged by Pratibha Goyal, the vice-chancellor of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University in Ayodhya.
Diwali, a nationwide holiday in India, is a time for socializing and exchanging gifts with loved ones. Many partake in lighting earthen oil lamps or candles, and fireworks illuminate the night sky. A special prayer dedicated to the Hindu goddess Lakshmi, believed to bring luck and prosperity, marks the evening.
As festivities unfolded, concerns about air quality in India heightened. The air quality index recorded a “hazardous” level of 400-500 last week, exceeding the global safety threshold by over tenfold. Such conditions can lead to respiratory issues, including acute and chronic bronchitis and asthma attacks. However, unexpected rain and strong winds on Saturday improved air quality levels to 220, as reported by the government-run Central Pollution Control Board.
Anticipated fireworks during Diwali celebrations may cause a subsequent spike in air pollution levels. To mitigate this, officials in New Delhi took preventive measures, such as shutting down primary schools, banning polluting vehicles, and halting construction work. Water sprinklers and anti-smog guns were deployed to combat haze, and many individuals resorted to wearing masks to shield themselves from air pollution.
New Delhi consistently tops the list of Indian cities with poor air quality, particularly during the winter when crop residue burning in neighboring states coincides with cooler temperatures, trapping hazardous smoke. Some Indian states have imposed restrictions, including bans on firework sales, to curb pollution. Authorities have also encouraged the use of “green crackers” emitting fewer pollutants. Despite such measures, compliance with regulations has historically been a challenge.
This year’s Diwali celebrations held particular significance as preparations were underway to inaugurate a long-awaited temple dedicated to the Hindu god Ram in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. The temple, constructed at the site of a demolished 16th-century Babri mosque, is scheduled to be inaugurated in January, marking a significant cultural and religious milestone.