The story behind Diwali's favourite firecrackers

Fireworks
Fireworks sold at a shop. Photo: Reuters

It is time for a lights, sound and a lot action. This Diwali let's learn more about what it takes to make those wonderful works of art that illuminate our grounds during the celebrations:

  1. Fireworks
    Labourers mixing tonnes of gun powder. Photo: Reuters

    Labourers at firework factories mix tonnes of gun powder every day so as to ensure the consistency of the ingredients used in the fireworks.

  2. Fireworks
    A wide array of raw materials are used to make sparklers, flower-pots, chakras etc. Photo: Reuters

    A wide array of raw material are used to make sparklers, anaars(Flower pots), chakras and other fireworks. These include stiff metal wire, paper, cardboard and a slow burning composition of a substance or mixture of substances designed to produce an effect by heat, light, sound and gas/smoke.

  3. Fireworks
    Coloured paper makes the crackers look attractive. Photo: Reuters

    Coloured paper is also used to make the fireworks look attractive when sold in the stores.

  4. Fireworks
    Labourers test the fireworks. Photo: Reuters

    The workers then test the fireworks before distributing them among shopkeepers

Play safe, be considerate

Fireworks are not toys. Thus, it is always best to play safe at all time.

Workers of firework factories are subject to several health hazards. Photo: Reuters

While the fireworks assure several moments of joy and excitement, the lives of many factory workers do not appear happy. The long hours at the factory and strenuous work schedules have led to several health issues among these workers. The concerns range from severe burns to breathing disorders.

Some firework factories employee children as well. Photo: Reuters

Some factories employ children as well, encouraging child labour, making the scenario more dangerous. Steps, however, are being taken to put an end to the practice.

So the next time you light a sparkler, remember the ones responsible for those few seconds of joy and excitement in your life.