[Indyk_EONNext]

The Word 'Diwali' means 'rows of lighted lamps'

Diwali is known as the 'festival of lights' which is celebrated in Hinduism and Sikhism. People often decorate their homes with small oil lamps called 'diyas', patterns are also made outside the entrance of homes using colourful materials like powders and pastes. This is known as Rangoli. The celebration commences as the night falls, which involves loved ones getting together to take part in festive gatherings, dressing up in traditional Indian clothes, firework displays, feasts of sweet 🍬and savoury Indian food along with singing prayers.

When is Diwali celebrated?

Diwali always falls some time between October and November, the exact date varies each year depending on the moon.

What is the story of Diwali in Hinduism?

Long ago there was a great warrior prince called Rama, he was married to a beautiful princess called Sita. An evil king called Ravana lived near them, he was known to have ten heads and twenty arms! Ravana wanted to make Sita his wife, so one day he kidnapped her and flew off with her in his chariot. Rama was informed of the kidnapping of Sita and took it upon himself to rescue her. After a long battle between the two, Rama and Sita were reunited and returned home at night. Upon their return they had found the villagers had lit oiled lamps to guide them home safely. This is now a memorable celebration, which marks the reunite of Rama and Sita through lights.

What is the story of Diwali in Sikhism?

Bandi Chhor Divas is the Sikh celebration for Diwali, it marks the day when the sixth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Hargobind Ji and 52 kings were released from prison after several months. This is also celebrated by lighting candles, visiting the temple to enjoy Delicious vegetarian food.

Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas to those celebrating ✨

[meldrewreborn]

@Indyk_EONNext

A home two doors away had some fireworks two night ago for Diwali. Yesterday morning there was a 7cm hole in our plastic garden table caused by a nerf style cylinder 7cm long and 15mm in diameter. On collecting the shattered pieces together the point of impact was clearly visible. While I'm in no doubt as to the cause of the damage (I'd initially hoped it was a meteorite!) proving the cause would be impossible. I've replaced the shattered bits into the hole and soldered them in place - visible impact is minor, although I'll have to put a warning sign for squirrels not to stand on that spot.😀

I dare say that the fireworks involved were probably display type rather than those properly intended for domestic use. My message would be treat fireworks with respect, follow the safety instructions fully and think of neighbours and pets too.

[Indyk_EONNext]

Hey @meldrewreborn

Oh no! I am sorry to hear that and totally agree Fireworks should be used correctly and safely.

[WizzyWigg]

Fireworks: the law
You cannot buy ‘adult’ fireworks if you’re under 18, and it’s against the law for anyone to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions.

Adult fireworks are category 2 and 3 fireworks - they do not include things like party poppers.

Category 4 fireworks can only be used by professionals.

The law says you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.

You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for:

Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight
New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am
Check with your council to find out about any local rules for setting off fireworks.

Get information about firework safety from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Health and Safety Executive.

Buying fireworks
You can only buy fireworks (including sparklers) from registered sellers for private use on these dates:

15 October to 10 November
26 to 31 December
3 days before Diwali and Chinese New Year
At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops.

You can be fined an unlimited amount and imprisoned for up to 6 months for selling or using fireworks illegally. You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90.

[Indyk_EONNext]

Thank you for sharing @WizzyWigg 😊

[meldrewreborn]

@WizzyWigg

All I can say is that these laws have been contravened on a huge scale in my area. And the local council, which will fine you for anything like dropping litter or leaving something on the pavement when you shouldn't, probably hasn't secured a single conviction for breaches in past 5 years.

[WizzyWigg]

Originally Posted by meldrewreborn

@WizzyWigg

All I can say is that these laws have been contravened on a huge scale in my area. And the local council, which will fine you for anything like dropping litter or leaving something on the pavement when you shouldn't, probably hasn't secured a single conviction for breaches in past 5 years.

That sounds very familiar. 🤔