At a time when the city seems stifled because of the COVID-19 outbreak, Diwali is being seen as a bright spot amid the gloom. The festival of lights and cheer will surely lift Mumbai's mood.

Having acknowledged that a celebration is always a happy occasion in these times, let us be ready to mark this with a little difference. We must do some tweaking and make little sacrifices to ensure safety. It is in our best interests to ensure that Diwali is not an excuse for a free-for-all, reckless time but a celebration with caution.