Goa, Nov. 2 -- As cheap, mass-produced plastic decorations increasingly flood local markets and dominate modern Diwali celebrations, a quiet cultural resistance is taking shape in South Goa. In the quiet neighbourhood of Dessaiwada, Quepem, traditional artisan Vithoba Phaldesai is working tirelessly to keep Goa's authentic festive heritage alive. Through his dedicated venture, Sai Creations, Phaldesai is crafting handmade, eco-friendly Akash Kandils (sky lanterns), proving that celebrating the festival of lights can be both culturally meaningful and environmentally responsible.

Gauresh Sattarkar

QUEPEM

This year marks Vithoba's eighth consecutive year of keeping this traditional art form alive. Every season, he handcrafts around 100 la...