I am forced to write this after seeing my pet cat behave 'abnormally' at the noise of festive firecrackers. This happens only during festivals, yes, but one must admit that it happens more frequently than ever before- thanks to the dirt cheap prices and easy accessibility.

Rites and rituals have a greater significance in life. They form the anchor on which traditions can be built upon values can be transferred. We build our rites and rituals ourselves. The way we celebrate, the way we pray, the times,