Sky Lantern

SIGNIFICANCE OF LANTERNS

One cannot deny the significance of light and consequently the importance of lanterns in our lives since time immemorial.

The concept of the airborne sky lantern or Chinese lanterns originated in Asian countries but has now spread all over the world.

The fuel cell or candle has to be lit and then the sky lantern is released into the air. However it should be kept in mind that the climatic conditions determine its air flight.

The New Year celebrations in China are in full swing by the time the first full moon of the year is visible in the sky.

It is during this time that the people hang Chinese sky lanterns in places that are public.   

There are lots of interesting little anecdotes associated with the lantern festivals.  Now days other cultures have also caught on.

Wish lanterns have come pretty happening for making wishes at weddings and birthdays and they come fully packaged with cool music and amazing decorations.

Floating lanterns delight a child’s heart as they float away in a hue of colors.  These lanterns are less noisy than fire works and less expensive but just as stunning to behold.

In Taiwan sky lanterns are made and the prayers are written on the lanterns.  Then these lanterns are released to flow heavenwards.

Another ancient custom was people would hang sky lanterns with riddles inscribed on them.

The people would glance through the riddles and try to solve them. If anyone made a correct guess, the lantern owner would present a little token of appreciation.

These anecdotes delight the heart of both the old and the young alike.

So basically we can say that lanterns have always been used for the benefit of mankind since time immemorial.  Whatever name we may call it by, the noble mission remains the same.