Bhagwat says smoke from old-style firecrackers purified the air, killed insects

As a debate continues over pollution from fireworks and firecrackers, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has commented on the firecrackers of earlier times. He said they were not made from chemicals, and their smoke killed insects and purified the atmosphere. According to Bhagwat, there is a scientific reason behind this.

Bhagwat was speaking on Tuesday at a Diwali programme of the Maheshwari Panchayat in Nagpur. He said festivals keep Indian society vibrant. Some people try to stop them, but they will not end, he said.

He said lamps of ghee and oil were lit in earlier times, which created a particular kind of air in the atmosphere. Bhagwat stressed that traditions should be followed with an understanding of the science behind them.

According to Bhagwat, celebrating festivals in their pure form can benefit the individual, society and the environment alike. He said festivals have been celebrated since time immemorial and will continue to be. People should carry these traditions forward in the right way so that their benefits remain, he said.

The RSS chief said Deepavali is now getting the importance worldwide that it deserves. He mentioned that Deepavali is also celebrated in the parliaments of the United States and the United Kingdom.

Bhagwat said the world is now coming to understand Indian festivals and their traditions. According to him, on the day of Deepavali every Indian is happy, clean, pure and ready to serve. Giving to charity on festivals has also been part of Indian tradition, he said.

Bhagwat also appealed to people to follow the rules of the home, society and city. He said rules and laws are made for the better life of all. If people begin to correct their mistakes and follow social rules, conditions can improve for both society and the environment, he said.