Can Chennai Celebrate Diwali, Differently?

[Vijay]

Last year, closer to this time, the entire city of Chennai was under water. We have much to be thankful about. But It would be unfortunate if we don't recognize what we have, and what we have to give.

I am often reminded of the words "what is given to us, is not necessarily for us" - sometime we are just the conduits to pass on something that is given to us temporarily, but is meant for someone else.

I have this crazy idea. I wish if Chennai could be a city that celebrates the festival of lights differently. Right now we celebrate within our homes, and the only time folks come out is to create a ruckus with crackers and leaving the mess behind.

What if... we could celebrate as a city. Group up, and clean up some of the public spaces near our homes, offices and apartments - maybe a park, maybe a bus stop, maybe a round about, maybe the street that is overflowing with garbage. What if we could lit diyas not just in our homes, but in these spaces, as an acknowledge that we are the city.

If we start caring about, atleast thinking about beyond our homes, we will also start thinking about maybe lesser noise - light crackers are awesome and please do light them, they make the city look amazing. We wont hurt the poor animals that are scared for life during that time. We start being considerate, and thats what makes a great city.

Let's care for those beyond just our homes, cause at the end of the day, as the floods showed, it takes everyone of us to survive. What if we could donate some clothes to the poor who need it, and maybe share sweets and greetings with the homeless who live under bridges with no family to go to.

What if, Chennai stands out, just like the way it reacted to the floods. What if, we celebrate the festival, the one of lights, with hope, with our entire city and care for everyone. What if ...

We have two weeks to go. And this could be the start to something amazing. What do you think?

- Vijay