It is often argued that excessive amounts of money are being spent by governments and individuals on national celebrations like New Year and festivals. Personally, I partly agree with this statement. While such celebrations bring joy and foster cultural identity, I believe that more balanced spending could address pressing societal needs. I feel this way for several reasons, which I will explore in my essay.
One reason to agree that too much money is spent on national celebrations is the potential misallocation of resources. Large-scale events often involve extravagant displays, such as fireworks, concerts, and decorations, which require significant financial investment. For example, a study in the UK showed that millions are spent annually on New Year’s Eve fireworks, funds that could instead improve public infrastructure or healthcare. Additionally, the financial burden often falls on individuals, who may overspend on gifts or festivities, leading to unnecessary debt. Therefore, reducing the scale of these celebrations could free up resources for more essential areas like education or poverty alleviation.
However, national celebrations also play an important role in society, which justifies a portion of the expenditure. These events strengthen cultural traditions, foster a sense of community, and boost morale. For instance, festivals like Diwali or Chinese New Year bring people together and provide opportunities for cultural expression. Moreover, such occasions contribute to the economy by creating jobs in event planning, tourism, and retail. Therefore, while some funds may seem excessive, the overall societal and economic benefits cannot be ignored.
In conclusion, while I agree that spending on national celebrations can sometimes be excessive, I believe it is crucial to recognize their cultural and economic importance. Governments and individuals should aim for a balanced approach, allocating resources thoughtfully to ensure that both societal needs and cultural traditions are upheld. This way, celebrations can continue to enrich lives without compromising essential public services.