Aroen Kishen, who lost his wife Seema and their three children — Riyan, 11, Arohi, 8, and Shanaya, 4 — in a west London house fire, has warned others about the dangers of fireworks.
The blaze, which also killed two family friends, Nitin and Sandhaya Chopra, tore through the family’s Hounslow home during Diwali celebrations in November 2023. London Fire Brigade believes the fire started when a firework ignited recycling in a bin next to the house.
“That night destroyed my life,” said Mr Kishen. “Fireworks aren’t a game. You could lose everything.”
He recalled the day beginning with prayers, a visit to the gurdwara, and dinner with family before putting the children to bed. Moments later, the house was engulfed in flames. “I tried to go upstairs to help my family, but I lost consciousness,” he said.
About 70 firefighters battled the blaze, which spread rapidly and caused the staircase to collapse.
Ahead of this year’s Diwali, Mr Kishen urged people to think of others and avoid using fireworks at home. “Celebrate safely with your loved ones — at a party or place of worship.”
London Fire Brigade said the 2023 incident occurred during its busiest Diwali since 2010, with 710 emergency calls and 17 fireworks-related incidents. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Paul Askew urged Londoners to attend organised displays and buy fireworks only from reputable sellers.
“As we approach Diwali, Halloween, and Bonfire Night, we want everyone to enjoy a safe fireworks season,” he said.
