Andhra Tribals Celebrate Diwali with Diyas, Shun Fireworks

Visakhapatnam: Adivasi staying in the forests of agency areas in AP have chosen not to celebrate Diwali like their city or rural counterparts. The tribal people, who worship nature, have chosen not to burst firecrackers, lest they damage their forests.

However, they have made it a point to light diyas at their residences, making their dwellings glow in the dark.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Araku ZPTC Shetty Roshini underlined, "We have a lot of forests. We worship nature. We do not burn firecrackers, as we want no harm to nature. We believe in lighting up diyas and filling our houses with light."

Social activist Ajay Kumar pointed out that tribal farmers residing near the plains celebrate “Nagula Chaviti,” instead of Diwali, with great enthusiasm, as it aligns with their agricultural practices.

Social activist K. Govinda Rao says, “Hindu organisations in tribal areas encourage us to celebrate Diwali. Churches are increasingly active in these regions, conducting social service programmes. In the past 15 years, the number of mosques in tribal areas, including the Visakhapatnam agency, have grown. The three major religions in our areas have introduced a blend of religious practices among the tribes.”

Despite these external influences, Adivasi prefer preserving their traditions, says Govinda Rao. Their areas reflect a tapestry of religious coexistence.

As the world celebrates Diwali with dazzling lights and loud fireworks, Adivasi in the agency areas are cautious and remain rooted in their respect for nature. This is their profound way of honouring the festival.