Diwali, the Festival of Lights is largely celebrated on Amavasya (New Moon) night. This year, Diwali will be observed on November 13, while many Council- organised events were held in October, leaving time for families to celebrate in their own way on the actual day.
With approximately 940 million Hindus around the world, Diwali also marks the beginning of a New Year on the Hindu calendar.
With the increase of the population of Hindus in New Zealand, Diwali festivities have been much more prominent over the years.
This year, there were a number of events in different parts of Auckland as well as celebrations at the TSB Arena in Wellington.
Universal appeal
Fireworks play an important part in Diwali festivities, as they light up the sky with multi-coloured effects provided with an assortment of items available for purchase.
Fireworks appeal to all age groups, whether they are children or adults as it is the part most people look forward to of Diwali celebrations.
It is often said that the Diwali celebrations are not complete until the family gets together to witness and enjoy the night sky lit by fireworks.
The tradition of letting fireworks during Diwali is an expression of homage to the heavens for the attainment of health, wealth, peace, knowledge and prosperity.
In New Zealand, fireworks are used for a number of festivities.
Guy Fawkes Day
They are most commonly used to mark Guy Fawkes Day, which is on November 5 every year. The history behind this day is due to an event that occurred in 1605, when a group of 12 men attempted to blow up Britain’s House of Parliament.
This was labeled the ‘Gunpowder Plot’ and included Guy Fawkes.
He gained the reputation as one of Britain’s most notorious traitors.
The attempt failed and the 12 men were caught, hung, drawn and quartered.
To ensure that the public are reminded that this type of behaviour would not be tolerated, a sermon was read in Parliament on the anniversary every year.
The sermon was known as ‘Remember, Remember, the Fifth of November.’
Guy Fawkes Day is a joyous occasion in New Zealand to mark the coming of summer and an opportunity for friends and families to celebrate the start of the BBQ Season with a backyard display of fireworks.
It is also common for people to use fireworks for New Year Eve celebrations, birthdays, Chinese New Year and other occasions.
It is important to note that fireworks can be sold only from November 2 to 5 every year. However, you may let fireworks off anytime during the year as long as you are on private property and have permission of the property owner.
Therefore, people use the opportunity of the brief sale period to stock up for occasions such as Diwali, New Year Eve and birthdays.
Remember that with the fun and excitement of fireworks, it is important that we use them safely and follow the instructions and warnings on the label.
Fireworks can only be sold to those 18 years of age and over.
Make sure to complete the entry form on Page 74 for your chance to win $350 worth of fireworks thanks to our friends at Boom Brothers.
Website: www.boombrothers.co.nz
(The above material was supplied by Boom Brother)
