As the festival of light, Diwali, is just around the corner, Indians cannot wait to don their new set of clothes, hog delectable sweets and bring out their inner artists with vibrant rangoli. Well, all of that after they have secured a thick stash of crackers. No? No. The government has banned sale and use of firecrackers till January next year in Delhi. Therefore, netizens have come up with a gorgeous replacement. Instagram-worthy paper lanterns are taking over the market, while people are looking for the best ones to light up the sky on Diwali’s eve. 

Sahil Sharma, a 29-year-old engineer from Rajghar Colony, told Hindustan Times, “The best part about sky lanterns is that they are safer than firecrackers and also completely noiseless. We have already bought our sky lanterns for Diwali and chhoti Diwali. Also on Bhai Dooj, it’s a calm activity to carry out with the family.”

Ashok, a Sadar Bazar shopkeeper who is stocking up on sky lanterns, said he’s selling a set of 100 for $1,700. “Iss saal demand zyada hai kyunki firecrackers ban hain. We have had to restock the sky lanterns. Logon mein awareness bhi badhi hai environment ko leke (Demand for sky lanterns is pretty high this year, thanks to the ban on firecrackers. We have had to restock them. In fact, people have become more conscious about the safety of the environment),” he added. 

Sanjay Garg from Pitampura added, “Sky lanterns are economical. We are retailing them for ₹50-60 per piece. And their craze has grown big time. They are becoming popular because they cause no shor-sharaba or pollution. Moreover, a 50-year-old may not burst crackers but find it peaceful to light up a sky lantern, for Diwali wali feel with family.”

When compared to crackers, it’s a safer option for parents with younger children. “We usually let out 10-12 sky lanterns each festival, and it’s lit by adults only,” said Ankit Aggarwal, a network analyst in Ghaziabad. ” These are more environment friendly and children too enjoy releasing them in the sky. Our whole family prefers the lanterns over crackers.”