Tihar, the festival of lights, has formally begun, and the vibrant celebrations have once again enveloped our communities in joy and festivity. This festival holds a special place in our hearts, with its warm ambiance, colorful decorations, and the beauty of lights. As we come together to celebrate, it is essential to remember the environment and the significance of sustainable living. This year, let's take a resolve towards a more eco-friendly Tihar, ensuring that our festivities do not come at the cost of our fragile ecosystem. Lights have always been a significant part of Tihar celebrations. Traditionally, diyos or clay-oil lamps and candles used to illuminate our homes, harking back to a time when electricity was a distant dream, and oil lamps provided the only source of light. However, in today's age of readily available electricity, it's time to consider more sustainable options. While we cherish our traditions, embracing electric lights is a responsible way to celebrate Tihar without squandering precious resources. Electric lights not only conserve oil but are also safer and long-lasting, ensuring that the essence of Tihar continues to shine brightly.

It is equally important to reimagine our approach to gifts during Tihar, particularly during the Bhai Tika tradition of exchanging gifts. Instead of opting for disposable items like cotton handkerchiefs or quirky socks, consider gifts that are durable and environmentally friendly. Copper straws, reusable coffee mugs, custom tote bags, organic skincare sets, potted plants, and other sustainable options can make a significant impact. When exchanging gifts, encourage your loved ones to make conscious choices and utilize these gifts for the long term. Your gift choices can inspire those around you to be more aware of the environment. Remember to use creative and sustainable packaging that reduces waste and avoids the need for tape and fancy paper. Conserving energy is another vital aspect of celebrating Tihar responsibly. Many of us have a tendency to leave lights on throughout the night and even during the daytime, simply because it's festive time. We must recognize that such practices are unnecessary and contribute to the wasteful use of electricity. While electricity may be renewable, it is crucial to conserve this valuable resource, especially when some communities in Nepal still lack access to it. Overloaded transformers during festivals can result in prolonged power outages, affecting entire neighborhoods.

The use of single-use plastics during family gatherings is a common practice that should be reconsidered. While it may seem convenient, the environmental impact is significant. Opt for reusable tableware or, if necessary, use paper plates and cups as a more eco-friendly alternative. During Bhai Tika, the plastic packaging of gifts and snacks can be substituted with paper packaging or creatively displayed on the ceremonial 'thali.' When shopping for Tihar, carry your own bags and water bottle to reduce plastic use. Every small effort counts in our collective mission to protect the environment. Furthermore, safety is another crucial aspect of celebrating Tihar responsibly. Fireworks can be distressing to animals, including pets, so ensure they are set off away from them. Avoid leaving diyos and candles unattended, as they can pose fire hazards to plants and homes. Responsible celebrations require us to be mindful of the potential harm our festivities can cause to both the environment and those around us.

Tihar, which is the second most important festival celebrated across the country, is a time for celebration, reflection, and gratitude. As we bask in the glow of lights, share gifts, and come together with our loved ones, let's also embrace the responsibility of preserving our environment for future generations. The simple choices we make during Tihar can have a lasting impact on our ecosystem. By using electric lights, giving sustainable gifts, conserving energy, reducing plastic use, and celebrating safely, we can ensure that the festival of lights continues to shine, not just for us but for all living beings and the planet we call home. This Tihar, let our celebrations illuminate the path to a more sustainable and harmonious future. Happy Tihar !

 
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