Diya V/s String Lights

Diya v/s String Lights


Until few years back Diwali Diyas (Clay oil lamps) and decorative string lights (usually called as Jhalars in Hindi) had a strong friendship. Both had an awesome understanding. Both were dominant in their respective places. There was not any kind of commercial competitiveness between them. But from last few years, Jhalars started changing her forms. She joined hands with some of her foreign friends and started expanding her regions. Even they started intruding Diya’s region. And it resulted in the rift between the two.


Diya started thinking, ”My usage is limited to only a few special occasions and festivals but this Jhalar has started making money around the year. These days even international festivals are celebrated all around India and thus this Jhalar is becoming center of attraction not only in marriage functions but even in all kinds of festivals.”


Diya went to Goddess Laxmi with a heavy heart. Laxmiji was busy planning about the upcoming festival of Diwali with Lord Ganesha. They welcomed the Diya with lots of affection and asked him the reason after looking at his dull face. Diya couldn’t control and told them about Jhalar’s menacing strategy and also how devotees started attracting towards her and developing apathy for him.


Looking at the seriousness of the matter, Laxmiji and Ganeshji asked Jhalar to come and meet them immediately. Jhalar came and put forward her points. She told how rising price of oil, clarified butter(Ghee), outside weather conditions like wind or rain made her famous among devotees. Even she showcased her beauty and durability. Jhalar’s points were valid and strong.


After listening to both parties Laxmiji and Ganeshji started discussing. Diya and Jhalar were waiting for their decision.


Firstly Ganeshji started, “You both are absolutely correct and have valid points. But I want you both to be friendly just like before. As per traditions, the festival is known as “Deepavali”, so the importance of Diyas should prevail. You both stay in your regions as you used to be. Diya… you stay and beautify in temples, balconies, patios because you will be safe at these places and Jhalar… you light the concrete buildings and skyscrapers.”


Laxmiji also warned Jhalar to stop commercializing and break her friendship with her foreign friends. She also suggested Diya find out some alternatives for oil and clarified butter and focus on his looks so that devotees start attracting towards him.


Both Diya and Jhalar got satisfied with the decision. Jhalar decided to break her friendship with foreigners and once again Diya and Jhalar became best of friends.


(My dear friends, with this story I just wanted to convey that any festival is a symbol of love and culture. It is our duty as a responsible citizen that we should stop the increasing commercialization and keep alive the true spirit of our festivals.)

 

Thanks @ Geetakashyap. for your outstanding feedback. Reciprocating good wishes with amity & love.

 

@Adharv Happy diwali to you and your family. Thanks for your rocking FB.

 

Thanks@ Muggs. In the name of globalization , we are loosing our ancient & valuable culture also. Now it is the need of time to change our mindset otherwise it will be too late. Happy Diwali.

 

@shravs3 Thanks for liking my msg. Happy Diwali.