Diwali with crackers
Bursting Crackers was never an essential part of Diwali. The introduction of gunpowder in Indian warfare was done after 1400 CE and it is supposed that from this time onwards firecrackers were associated with Diwali celebrations. The arrival of King Ram to his kingdom after being in the state of banishment for 14 years was welcomed by lighting the whole empire with oil lamps. The defeat of king Ravana was also celebrated. Diwali is also commemorated as demon Mahishasura and demon Narkasura were defeated by goddess Durga and lord Krishna respectively. It is believed that bursting fire crackers is a symbol of victory of morality over evil and it brings prosperity, health and peace. Hence oil lamps were replaced by fire crackers. Nowadays bursting fire crackers have become an important part of the rituals conducted during Diwali. It is also believed that bursting fire crackers helps to deal with lowering the menace caused by mosquitoes.