Diwali fireworks: calls for safety and religious tolerance

AS DIWALI approaches, the eThekwini Municipality has issued a firm warning to residents to act responsibly when using fireworks, while Hindu leaders appeal for greater religious tolerance.

City spokesperson, Gugu Sisilana, said they would be strictly enforcing by-laws governing the use of fireworks during Diwali.

“Residents are cautioned against the use of illegal fireworks and reminded of the importance of responsible firework usage during major religious festivals and festive season holiday celebrations,” Sisilana said.

She highlighted that fireworks, while festive, posed real dangers if misused.

“Even though fireworks are beautiful and exciting to watch, they can also be potentially dangerous. They can cause damage to your property and harm your family or pets,” she warned.

According to the city bylaws, fireworks are only permitted at private residences for Diwali from sunset to midnight. Anyone found in violation could face a fine of R2,500.

Hindu leaders have also called for more empathy and tolerance from the community during Diwali.

Simi Sharma, chairperson of the legal team at the South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS), condemned what she described as annual “hate speech and outrage” often directed at Hindu communities because of fireworks.

“Diwali is one of the most auspicious and popular of Hindu festivals. Yet, every year, from certain quarters, it elicits outrage, a lack of understanding and sadly a tirade of ‘hate speech’ using inter alia social media platforms, because of the use of fireworks.

“To avert or curtail animosity and conflict, SAHMS aims to educate the community on the rights of all citizens and on the broader significance of Diwali, with the hope that this will build unity rather than division.

 “We support the responsible use of fireworks, which has been an inherent part of celebrating Diwali. It was essential to comply with local municipal by-laws, as well as being mindful of fellow residents and their animals. The Sabha is opposed to big bangs, and it is unclear how this is imported. There appears to be a problem with regulation and enforcement.

“The Sabha is being proactive in trying to avoid the racial attacks and conflicts of previous years. We have commissioned a team of attorneys who have generously volunteered to assist the community in anticipation of racism and anti-Hindu sentiment that usually flares up during Diwali,” she added.

“We ask all corporate bodies to ensure that Hindu residents within your properties are not discriminated against,” said Sharma. 

Dr Rajendran Govender, Commissioner at the Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Rights Commission (CRL), expressed concern over the increasing intolerance during Diwali.

“Deepavali is a time of renewal, reflection, and the triumph of good over evil. Sadly, in recent years, we have witnessed sporadic incidents of intolerance, prejudice, and misinformation directed at Hindu communities during this sacred period.

“Such behaviour is deeply concerning because it is not only disrespectful to the Hindu faith, but it also undermines the very fabric of our constitutional democracy, which is founded on freedom of religion, belief, and expression. The CRL Rights Commission has consistently reminded all South Africans that every person has the right to celebrate their faith and culture without fear, interference, or intimidation.

“Religious tolerance does not mean uniformity, it means respect for diversity. South Africa’s strength lies in its ability to embrace its many faiths, languages, and traditions as complementary expressions of one national identity. Deepavali should therefore be seen not through the narrow lens of difference, but as a powerful symbol that illuminates our shared humanity. When one faith is attacked, the moral conscience of the nation is dimmed. When all faiths are respected, South Africa shines brighter,” said Govender. 

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