In reference to the letter ‘Have compassion for the elderly’ that was in the Estcourt and Midlands News, October 25, page 6; I’d like to respond in saying that we come from a very cultured background.

READ THE LETTER HERE: Have compassion for the elderly

On this very day and only day in the year, we celebrate the festival of lights. How can we being Hindu’s not celebrate this festive day?

Lighting of lamps and fireworks is part of us celebrating this joyous occasion. Yes, we respect the fact that we have the old age home residing, not directly opposite us but more to the right. We take them into consideration, we end our fireworks display as early as possible. We are not so illiterate to point fireworks directly at buildings or people/animals for that matter.

The tree, which did catch alight, happened to be in our yard and was caused by us; we therefore had control over it. It had nothing to do with anyone else. Regarding the firework falling through an open window, firstly that very firework could have fallen from anywhere, not specifically from our fireworks display (which took place at our residence).

Secondly, why was the window open on a very cold, windy night at that specific time, knowing that it was a festive night and fireworks were going to be displayed?

And thirdly, it being an old age home, as an adult you should have approached us first to clear up any misunderstandings/differences instead of lambasting a misinterpretation of what happened in the local media. In our Hindu religion, our loved ones belong with us and not in an old age home .

Shakira Autar

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