Millions celebrate Diwali across India with prayers and lights
Devotees gathered at temples and landmarks nationwide as the festival of lights brought messages of prosperity and hope.
Millions of people across India celebrated Diwali on Sunday, marking the festival with prayers, family gatherings, and the lighting of oil lamps and decorative lights. According to BBC News, the celebrations symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Prominent landmarks and temples were illuminated for the occasion. The New Indian Express reported that devotees gathered at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Dakshineswar Kali Temple in Kolkata, and the Adya Katyayani Shaktipeeth Temple in Delhi. In Ayodhya, crowds assembled at Saryu Ghat for holy dips and prayers.
The festival comes amid concerns regarding air pollution, particularly in northern India. BBC News stated that Delhi has reached hazardous pollution levels, making it the most polluted Diwali in a decade. To address this, the Supreme Court on Monday permitted the use of certified 'green' firecrackers in Delhi and surrounding areas for a limited period.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the nation, wishing citizens happiness and prosperity. In a video message, the Prime Minister described the festival as a symbol of the country's resolve against darkness.
The festivities include various traditions, such as the exchange of sweets and the creation of rangoli patterns. On 8 November, India's stock exchanges will hold a special one-hour Muhurat trading session for investors.