NSS, LSR had organized a session on Environment-Conscious Diwali on 12th November 2020. Dr. Supriya Singh, presently a sustainability advisor with a background in Sociology and Political Ecology, gave us a fresh perspective on celebrating a green Diwali which was oriented towards a sustainable solution, that is, “ The Power of One”. From tracing the roots of Diwali to present day celebrations, she recognized contemporary practices that have separated us from the nature. From bursting crackers, a relatively new phenomenon, sacrificing owls on Laxmi puja to consumerist attitudes that drives the sales during Diwali, has made it an inhumane festival. She emphasized on the potential an individual has in bringing about change and engaged the participants in a dialogue around what we can do. She encouraged us to take a pledge for a green Diwali, give sustainable and handmade gifts like a plant, wrapper-less gifts, support the local businesses. In the end, she showed us a video on a cracker-less Diwali.
