Happy Diwali!

Today is the official starting day of Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights.  I say Indian because Diwali, while ostensibly a Hindu festival, nonetheless attracts all faiths to its activities of feasting, family-visiting, gift-giving and – as you see above – fireworks.  These are just some examples I was able to capture snapping pix from my balcony.  As I type and look out my office window I see fireworks near and far almost continuously.  Firecrackers – some incredibly loud – have been echoing all around since dawn this morning.  Fireworks of various types have been going off since Saturday, though tonight seems to be the most so far.

I found these used examples outside my flat this morning, a rather heavy roman-candle like thing and an empty box of sparklers.  I guess Batman is somehow a cross-cultural symbol of night – on my balcony this evening I certainly saw enough actual bats.

Diwali is also a time to show appreciation to employees.  I have made a modest tip to the security people at my building, and I hope to do the same later this week for my driver.  The local newspapers feature many stories on public employees and the bonuses they do or do not receive for this holiday.

Ah – a barrage of screamers is zinging past my windows now.  Happy Diwali, everyone!