Thiruvananthapuram: The firework displays have become a fund raiser for those conducting the festivals as well as a show-off for the sponsors. They have ceased to have anything to do with the traditional rituals. Over these years, fireworks have become an integral part of most of the festivals, cutting across religious tags, and the highlight would be the cost involved.
Mike announcements of the major sponsors of fireworks are often heard louder than the sound of the crackers, sources associated with festivals point out.
“Many festival committees collect huge amounts in the name of firework display, highlighting the cost involved. But the actual amount being spent would be much lower. Fireworks are indeed a means to attract even non-devotees to the temple festivals,” a member of a festival committee in a temple in the city said.
Even in the case of Puttingal temple, the festival booklet lists the names of 11 persons who gave contributions of Rs 1 lakh to Rs 20,000 for the competitive fireworks. While two contributed Rs 1 lakh each, two others contributed Rs 50,000 each and six others Rs 25,000 each.
“Instead of spending on fireworks and inviting risks, such funds should be used for charity purposes like building homes for homeless or for education of the students from financially weak students,” said a senior police officer. There were even allegations that the costs of fireworks are often inflated. “Many temples are managed by private parties and hence the funds being collected under the cover of fireworks go unaccounted.
