There are interesting stories related to use of firecrackers in Diwali. According to one belief, the sound of crackers are an indication of the joy of the people living on earth, making the gods aware of it.

Though many state governments have launched 'Say No To Crackers' campaigns to curb pollution, people continue to buy them.

Sivakasi is India's main cracker manufacturing hub and accounts for 80 per cent of the country's production.

The fall side of the firework industry is that it employs a large number of children.

The market is seeing a slump as costs have gone up considerably and there are anti-cracker campaigns being launched in schools too.

Photograph: Sondeep Shankar/Saab Press, STR/AFP/Getty Images

Also See: Navratri