As the UK begins to enter and exit lockdowns at the governments will, things are changing. Celebrations may not be the same. For example, Diwali, the festival of light and colour had to be substantially altered due to the current situation. Fireworks have been harder to find and there is talk of banning them. This is because of the immense air pollution which can affect patients infected with Covid-19. However, the biggest highlight of Diwali is fireworks.
Many families may not have fireworks to celebrate with each other. Although it may seem trivial and ungrateful that you can’t purchase fireworks, you lose that sense of excitement as a family. One student recalls their celebrations this year, saying that “we sat at home and the house had an overwhelming silence contrasting towards large halls with friends and rows of fireworks and food.
But, now I was in my own house alone. It just felt lonely and my family and I were in complete silence the whole night.” Lockdown has been extremely lonely for many people and with them being away from their families can take a toll on mental health. Studies show that almost a quarter of people have felt loneliness in lockdown. And with Christmas coming up, some think the number will increase. Christmas is traditionally meant to be celebrated with family and friends even though the lockdown expected to end on 2nd of December, it is warned it may last longer. During Christmas, parties are expected every year, perhaps this may be the year that Christmas is postponed. However, is the mental impact of loneliness worse than not meeting up with family for Christmas.
