The world isn’t just for humans: Jaya Ahsan’s plea for responsible 31st celebrations

As the countdown to 2024 begins, many will celebrate with fireworks and arial lanterns lighting up the night sky. But what's often overlooked is the unintended harm these festivities can cause to animals, as well as the elderly and children. In a heartfelt plea, Jaya Ahsan has urged people to rethink their celebrations and opt for more mindful ways to welcome the new year, calling for a complete halt to fireworks and sky lanterns to protect vulnerable lives.

Jaya has always been known for her love of animals. She's vocal about the issues affecting them, and this time was no different. On Monday (December 30), she posted a long message on social media, shedding light on how New Year's celebrations indirectly cause harm to animals. In her post, she reminded us that we, as humans, are partly responsible for these deaths, even if unintentionally. Along with her message, Jaya also shared a thoughtful video to raise awareness.

In the video, the actress begins by wishing everyone a happy new year and then quickly shifts to a serious tone, saying, "Yes, we should absolutely celebrate the New Year. But our celebrations shouldn't cost lives. Fireworks and crackers might seem fun to us, but please, don't do it. Birds sleeping in trees often suffer heart attacks from the noise and die. Stray dogs and other animals on the streets get terrified and run in panic, sometimes to their deaths. Many people have sick or elderly family members at home who suffer because of the noise."

She goes on to say, "Remember, the world doesn't belong to humans alone. To those planning fireworks and sky lanterns for the 31st, I ask you—please don't do it. Show some restraint. Make sure your celebration of the new year doesn't threaten someone else's life."

At the end of the video, Jaya closes with, "Stay well, everyone, and let's spare a thought for the lives around us."

This isn't the first time the actress has spoken up for animal welfare. Jaya, who juggles a packed schedule, always makes time for her pets, proving that she's not only a brilliant actress but also a committed animal lover.

Meanwhile, Jaya Ahsan's latest film, "Nakshi Kanthar Zamin," directed by Akram Khan, is currently running in cinemas. Produced with government funding, the film portrays the heartbreaking story of two sisters who lost everything during the Liberation War.