For Diwali, animal protection NGO Animal Rahat is releasing a joyous video continuing its tradition of including animals in celebrations. The video, shot at Animal Rahat’s sanctuaries in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and West Bengal, starts with colourful fruits and fresh vegetables being chopped and set out in heart-shaped designs for garlanded camels, bulls, dogs, horses, goats, chickens and other rescued animals who have had a hard life and show their delight as they enjoy the tantalizing feast.

The animals at Animal Rahat’s sanctuaries have been rescued from terrible situations, such as being forced to perform in circuses, experimented upon in laboratories, pulled away minutes from slaughter, and hauling heavy loads of steel and sugarcane,” says Dr Naresh Chandra Upreti, Chief Operating Officer, Animal Rahat. “But with us, the safety, comfort and happiness of the rescued animals is paramount. With this celebration, we light up the animals’ lives and you can see happiness in their eyes.” Animal Rahat’s sanctuaries are located in secluded areas, away from fireworks and other loud sounds, but animals residing in cities and towns are not so lucky. Animal Rahat encourages celebrants to use quiet sparklers or diyas instead of loud fireworks which terrify animals and cause many to get hurt or lost as they flee panicked from their homes and neighborhoods.