As Hindus around the world prepare to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, Ward 93 councillor Vino Reddy, a Hindu himself, has shared a heartfelt message of faith, renewal, and community respect ahead of the festivities on October 20 and 21.

According to Reddy, Diwali, or Deepavalli, holds deep religious and cultural significance for Hindus. He said it marks the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.

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“Diwali is steeped in tradition and spiritual meaning. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, light and goodness will always prevail.”

Across the Indian diaspora, Diwali carries various meanings. For many, it celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Lord Ravana, a story about righteousness and the triumph of virtue.

Reddy said others see it as the start of a new year, representing new beginnings and a brighter future. “Many also honour Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of health and prosperity, and take time for ancestral worship and prayer.”

The lighting of lamps (diyas) remains central to the celebration, symbolising purity, enlightenment, and the guiding light that dispels darkness. Fireworks, too, form part of the tradition, illuminating the night sky and symbolically driving away evil.

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Reddy called on residents to celebrate with both joy and mindfulness. “Diwali is a time for family, prayer, and joyous celebration. But it’s also important to be considerate of neighbours, pets, and the broader community. Please inform your neighbours if you plan to use fireworks, and ensure your pets are kept safe and secure. The City of Johannesburg by-laws allow fireworks only between 7pm and 10pm.”

Reddy concluded with a warm message of goodwill to all celebrating: “As we light our lamps and embrace new beginnings, may Diwali bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to every home. I wish you and your family a blessed and joyful Diwali.”

The City of Johannesburg has established clear guidelines and by-laws regarding the use, sale, and display of fireworks to ensure community safety, protect animals, and consider neighbours.

Key points include:

• Fireworks are only permitted on specific celebratory days, and within designated time frames. For example, use on days such as Diwali is generally limited to 7pm – 10pm.
• On New Year’s Eve, the timeframe is extended (e.g., from 11pm to 1am) in certain cases.

Use of fireworks is prohibited:

• Within 500m of petrol stations, explosives factories/storage, hospitals, old-age homes, clinics, or animal-welfare institutions.
• In public thoroughfares (main roads, footpaths), in public places such as schools, or where animals are present.
• Children under the age of 16 may not purchase or set off fireworks unsupervised by an adult.
• Anyone selling or dealing in fireworks must hold a valid licence under the Explosives Act 15 of 2003 and the city by-law.

Fines apply for non-compliance:

• A fine of R1 000 for igniting fireworks near animals, hospitals, or old-age homes.
• A fine of R1 500 for igniting fireworks within 500m of a petrol station, allowing minors to use fireworks, or failing to obtain required permission.
• For large public displays or commercial fireworks events, formal authorisation must be obtained (often at least 14 days prior) and must comply with safety, licensing, and venue requirements.

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