The upcoming sky lantern festival planned in Morjim has reportedly evoked widespread criticism and outrage from environmental organizations and Goans in general. The festival involves releasing hundreds of candle lit paper lanterns into the sky. There is fear that this will pose a severe threat to the beach’s delicate natural ecosystem, not to mention the fire hazards it can lead to. It is learnt that the lanterns will be attached to fireproof threads. This can get the birds flying in the sky entangled in the thread. Hundreds of lit lanterns in the sky will drive away animals on the land and fish in the sea. Sky lantern festivals are alien to Goan culture. This festival originated in China an incredible 2000 years ago. In ancient China, sky lanterns were strategically used in wars for military communication. Many believe that sky lanterns can bring good luck and during Chinese New Year thousands fill the sky whilst New Year's wishes are made. But having the sky lantern festival in Morjim will only bring problems. However, Goans do light lanterns in their homes during the various festivals which brings good luck.
