Enjoy a safe  and green Diwali.

Keep it happy and healthy.

Start the new year on a prosperous note by not splurging money and wasting it on more lights, food and crackers than you could possible use in one night!

So, how do we keep this Diwali safe and green? The Supreme Court has mandated the following restrictions:

• To reduce noise pollution, bursting of crackers will only be allowed between 7 – 10 pm.
• Use only green crackers and other fireworks to keep pollution levels down.

The first restriction is obvious – keeping in mind the damage that is done to everyone’s peace of mind and hearing; keeping the ill, the young and the very old awake through the night; adding to our stress levels, spreading alarm and fear through otherwise calm neighbourhoods; harming the hearing and the sensitive nature of our pets; destroying the environment with dirt and debris; preventing life threatening accidents from happening – all these are reasons enough for us to ensure that this Diwali is celebrated safely and healthily.

Diwali is a vibrant, colourful, joyous celebration that takes place around food, and lots of it.

So, is it possible to have a healthy Diwali? In fact, Diwali specials are as inextricably tied up with boxed sweets as they are with gifts, clothing, cars and white goods. Celebrations include pre-Diwali dinners, Diwali lunches and many parties in the evenings. So, it’s easy to O.D. on mithais and chocolates that flood offices and homes. But, if you keep a few guidelines in mind, it is possible to have a healthier and safer Diwali than usual.

Want to eat your fill without adding to your fat quota or getting an upset stomach? Just have your daily dose of fruits. The fibre in the fruits will keep your digestive system working efficiently.

During the festive season we go to parties on an empty stomach – thinking that we can banish hunger pangs by binging at the party. Skipping meals and binge eating is the primary reason for weight gain.

Sipping on cold drinks at social gatherings causes dehydration and increases calorie intake. Drinking water throughout the day and in the evenings is vital as it helps you to detox and stay hydrated. Also, your alcohol intake is diluted with water. Coconut water is a good way to keep yourself hydrated and healthy during the festive season.

If there is one thing we all do during Diwali is over-eat. This can lead to higher levels of cholesterol, blood pressure and sugar. Portion control is critical as overeating puts a strain on your liver. Eat small portions with a minimum gap of three hours between meals.

Drink in moderation. Choose beer over whiskey or wine – it’s less dehydrating. Cocktails, a combination of alcohol and juices, should also be avoided as they are full of empty calories and equally dehydrating.

Yes, you can. Take common sense precautions so that kids don’t get injured - kids are kids, and it’s up to the adults to keep a vigilant eye on them and ensure they don’t get into trouble or get hurt. It is an adult’s job to educate them on the precautions they need to take. Here is how you can celebrate a safe Diwali.

It is better to buy fewer crackers. This will save money and reduce the harmful effects fire crackers have on the environment, such as noise and air pollution.

Keep flammables far, far away

Make sure diyas and candles are kept away from flammable material such as clothes, curtains, papers, and wood – and away from children!

While bursting crackers, keep a bucket of water close by. Keep emergency numbers on hand in case of accidents. Keep a basic first aid box handy.

Make sure you and your kids are not wearing loose, synthetic clothes. Always stick to natural fabrics such as cotton.

Stay away from crowded areas

Never burst crackers in crowded places, on your terrace or balcony. Always go to any open ground close by.

Keep an eye on the kids

Kids get very excited during Diwali.. Always keep an eye on them and make sure they are properly supervised.

Wishing you a very happy, safe, harmonious, healthy and prosperous Diwali.

BY THIYAGARAJAN VELAYUTHAM, FOUNDER, IHHC| NOVEMBER 2ND, 2018