No fireworks during 'Sadharan Utsav' at Belur Math this year

Kolkata: In a departure from the age-old convention, the Ramakrishna Math and Mission will not display any firework on the public day celebration also known as Sadharan Utsav at Belur Math this year.

"The step has been taken to support the anti-pollution drive in the city," said Swami Suvirananda, general secretary RKM.

In an interview with a vernacular television channel, he said in every forum the issue of pollution was being discussed and in the Supreme Court and High Court were concerned over the issue. Instead of fireworks' display there will be cultural programmes at the Math during the event. The public day celebration is held on the following Sunday after Sri Ramakrishna's birth anniversary.

Welcoming the initiative, Kalyan Rudra, the chairman West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB), said: "We should congratulate the concerned authorities. The air quality has deteriorated and it gets worse during winter and when RKM takes a decision then it is going to inspire their followers and will strengthen the movement to save the environment."

Environmental activist Subhas Dutta welcomed the move and said: "Bold steps should be taken by every organization and individual if we really want to control pollution."

The decision has evoked mixed reaction among the devotees.

"Pollution is undoubtedly a relevant issue but by putting a check on fireworks on Sadharan Utsav, which is held once in a year, nothing much can be achieved. Display of firework is symbolic as a part of the celebration. We have profound respect for the Swamijis at Belur Math and their decision is final," said a devotee preferring anonymity.

It is a century-old convention at Belur Math to display fireworks on the day of Sadharan Utsav. Thousands of devotees and monks from all over the country gather at the Belur Math to witness the grand show. People hire boats and watch the show from river Hooghly.

Hundreds and thousands of people who stay in areas surrounding the Belur Math go to the terrace of their houses to watch the fireworks. The display is held on the ground in front of the two-storied building where Swami Vivekananda used to stay.

The firework is held after the evening prayer. It continues for more than an hour. No crackers are burst.