After Diwali, people of the India's national capital Delhi, woke up to a lot of smoke and very smoggy dawn. The air quality of the city has significantly worsened once again. WION gets you more.

Delhi's air quality turns 'severe' after Diwali as cracker ban goes up in smoke

Diwali 2021: Alia Bhatt to Priyanka Chopra: Here's how Bollywood celebs celebrated festival of lights

<p>Alia Bhatt made this Diwali quite special for her fans.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The 'Raazi' actress celebrated the festival of lights with her boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor and treated fans with some adorable loved-up photos.<br />
On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, Bhatt shared two posts on her Instagram account, in the first one she is looking stunning in a purple lehenga set from designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee's label. She accessorized her look with pink jhumkas and a matching bindi.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/in-pics-priyanka-chopra-nick-jonas-perform-lakshmi-puja-at-their-los-angeles-home-426871" hreflang="en">In pics: Priyanka Chopra &amp; Nick Jonas perform Lakshmi puja at their Los Angeles home</a></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CV3HcM3P4xo/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Alia Bhatt ☀️ (@aliaabhatt)</a></p>
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<p>The second post, which took social media by storm, was a mushy cute photo of the&nbsp;couple together.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-chrissy-teigen-stuns-in-saree-at-priyanka-chopra--nick-jonas-diwali-bash-with-john-legend-426855" hreflang="en">Chrissy Teigen stuns in saree at Priyanka Chopra &amp; Nick Jonas' Diwali bash with John Legend</a></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CV3Hrf9vYhe/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Alia Bhatt ☀️ (@aliaabhatt)</a></p>
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<p>In the picture, Alia and Ranbir are simply smiling and gazing deeply into each other's eyes.&nbsp;“and some love…Happy Diwali,” Alia captioned the post. In the post, Bollywood heartthrob Ranbir was looking dapper in a dark blue coloured kurta with golden embroidery.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Alia and Ranbir stepped out in Mumbai last night to attend Lakshmi Puja celebrations with a friend and 'Brahmastra' director Ayan Mukerji.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
On the film front, Ranbir will be soon seen in Luv Ranjan`s next, 'Brahmastra' and 'Shamshera'. While on the other hand, Alia too will be seen in 'Brahmastra', 'Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani', 'Gangubai Kathiawadi', 'Darlings', 'RRR'.</p>


Alia Bhatt made this Diwali quite special for her fans. The 'Raazi' actress celebrated the festival of lights with her boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor and treated fans with some adorable loved-up photos.

Alia Bhatt made this Diwali quite special for her fans. The 'Raazi' actress celebrated the festival of lights with her boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor and treated fans with some adorable loved-up photos. On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, Bhatt shared two posts on her Instagram account, in the first one she is looking stunning in a purple lehenga set from designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee's label. She accessorized her look with pink jhumkas and a matching bindi. In pics: Priyanka Chopra & Nick Jonas perform Lakshmi puja at their Los Angeles home View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alia Bhatt ☀️ (@aliaabhatt) × The second post, which took social media by storm, was a mushy cute photo of the couple together. Chrissy Teigen stuns in saree at Priyanka Chopra & Nick Jonas' Diwali bash with John Legend View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alia Bhatt ☀️ (@aliaabhatt) × In the picture, Alia and Ranbir are simply smiling and gazing deeply into each other's eyes. “and some love…Happy Diwali,” Alia captioned the post. In the post, Bollywood heartthrob Ranbir was looking dapper in a dark blue coloured kurta with golden embroidery. Alia and Ranbir stepped out in Mumbai last night to attend Lakshmi Puja celebrations with a friend and 'Brahmastra' director Ayan Mukerji. On the film front, Ranbir will be soon seen in Luv Ranjan`s next, 'Brahmastra' and 'Shamshera'. While on the other hand, Alia too will be seen in 'Brahmastra', 'Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani', 'Gangubai Kathiawadi', 'Darlings', 'RRR'.

Alia Bhatt & Ranbir Kapoor can’t take their eyes off each other in latest Diwali post

Diwali is one of the most popular Indian festivals, it is seen as a celebration of the victory of good over evil. But India isn’t the only place that celebrates the festival of lights. Here is how various countries in the world are celebrating the festival.

This is how various countries across the world are celebrating Diwali

It's Diwali today and the parties have begun already since last night. Bollywood celebrities although not making it too big this year were seen dressing up in their pretty best.

It's Diwali today and the parties have begun already since last night. Bollywood celebrities although not making it too big this year were seen dressing up in their pretty best. Last night, on Diwali eve, producer and filmmaker Ekta Kapoor hosted a Diwali bash at her residence in Mumbai. Several popular TV and film personalities turned for the same. The guest list included Salman Khan, Kartik Aaryan, Karishma Tanna, Hina Khan and others. Priyanka Chopra dresses up in white and silver for Diwali, shares beautiful photos View this post on Instagram A post shared by Instant Bollywood (@instantbollywood) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Instant Bollywood (@instantbollywood) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani) × It was a pretty star-studded event. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani) × Producer Karan Raj Kohli and Karishma Tanna took their Instagram handles and shared glamorous pictures. Trend Watch: Look your best this Diwali with our top picks for this festive season In one of the pictures, Saif Ali Khan's eldest kid, Ibrahim Khan was seen posing with Karan, Viraj Kapur, and others. Karan even dropped a picture with Ekta Kapoor and Karishma Tanna and wrote, “Diwali favourites”. As for work, Ekta Kapoor has several projects in the pipeline with recently released web show 'Girgit' and movies like 'Freddy', 'Ek Villain Returns', 'Goodbye' and Hansal Mehta's untitled thriller. Tamil film 'Jai Bhim' lands in 'anti-Hindi' controversy for scene featuring Prakash Raj In another big news, Ekta Kapoor will be conferred the fourth highest civilian honour, Padma Shri Award on November 8 in a ceremony in New Delhi.

Inside Ekta Kapoor's Diwali bash: Salman Khan, Ibrahim Ali Khan and others make it to the star-studded affair

<p>The festival of lights, Diwali, is being celebrated all over the world on Thursday.</p>

<p>One of the most popular Hindu festivals, it is seen as a celebration of the victory of good over evil.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Deepavali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Deepavali</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DiwaliAtExpo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DiwaliAtExpo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmritMahotsav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmritMahotsav</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAtDubaiExpo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAtDubaiExpo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ExpoDubai2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ExpoDubai2020</a><a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndembAbuDhabi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndembAbuDhabi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ficci_india?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ficci_india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaExpo2020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaExpo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AmritMahotsav?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmritMahotsav</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/expo2020dubai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@expo2020dubai</a> <a href="https://t.co/FUe5XTQjiy">https://t.co/FUe5XTQjiy</a> <a href="https://t.co/XOwsDzyFhI">pic.twitter.com/XOwsDzyFhI</a></p>
— India in Dubai (@cgidubai) <a href="https://twitter.com/cgidubai/status/1455925860226240516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Team Sri Lanka performing today @ Deepotsav-2021, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India<br />
<br />
Watch their live performance on:<a href="https://t.co/46a6q1wMJN">https://t.co/46a6q1wMJN</a><br />
<br />
Time: 5:30 PM onwards<br />
<br />
Sharing here some photos of Deepotsav-2021 (November 1-5)<a href="https://twitter.com/iccr_hq?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iccr_hq</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiainSL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AmritMahotsav?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmritMahotsav</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AzadiKaAmritMahotsav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AzadiKaAmritMahotsav</a> <a href="https://t.co/wrGS2ZGcBY">pic.twitter.com/wrGS2ZGcBY</a></p>
— ICCR in Sri Lanka (@iccr_colombo) <a href="https://twitter.com/iccr_colombo/status/1455865946451496964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Celebrating 6th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AyurvedaDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AyurvedaDay</a>, Amb <a href="https://twitter.com/dineshbhatia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dineshbhatia</a> inaugurated Conference on "Ayurveda and Nutrition" co-organized with <a href="https://twitter.com/ayurvedaprema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ayurvedaprema</a>. He highlighted growing reach of Ayurveda through Argentine Institutions, Experts &amp; Nutritionists dedicated to its dissemination<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmritMahotsav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmritMahotsav</a> <a href="https://t.co/k9KRReRVjs">pic.twitter.com/k9KRReRVjs</a></p>
— India in Argentina (@Indembarg) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indembarg/status/1455922717107101706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">Ambassador (Designate) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkhileshIFS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AkhileshIFS</a> and Mrs Reeti Mishra attended Parkside Diwali Celebrations. <a href="https://t.co/vssEFuAkIA">pic.twitter.com/vssEFuAkIA</a></p>
— India in Ireland (Embassy of India, Dublin) (@IndiainIreland) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainIreland/status/1455919112044040200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rangoli, fireworks, lightings marked Diwali celebrations at Embassy Residence. It had august presence of the Minister of Culture, Govt. of Panama, H.E. Carlos Aguilar Navarro, Indian diaspora and friends of India. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmritMahotsav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmritMahotsav</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAt75?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAt75</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AmritMahotsav?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmritMahotsav</a> <a href="https://t.co/viQ4hdBaQT">pic.twitter.com/viQ4hdBaQT</a></p>
— India in Panama (@IndiainPanama) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainPanama/status/1455900215588892675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Let’s celebrate the festival of lights by illuminating each other's paths.<br />
<br />
Best wishes for a happy and prosperous Diwali from TECC to all our friends in India! <a href="https://t.co/S63gUV3Dt6">pic.twitter.com/S63gUV3Dt6</a></p>
— Taiwan in India (@TWIndia2) <a href="https://twitter.com/TWIndia2/status/1455909214627385360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to wish people a happy Diwali.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is my wish that the festival brings happiness, prosperity, and good fortunes in everyone's life," he said.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-soft-power-of-diwali-426523/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Diwali is celebrated with great fervour and gaiety all over India as it marks the return of Hindu god Lord Rama to Ayodhya in northern India after he defeated Ravana, the powerful king of Lanka.</p>

<p>Devotees lit 1.2 million earthen lamps in India's northern temple town of Ayodhya, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Rama.</p>

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<p>The 3-km-long bank of Sarayu River in the holy town glistened when all the lamps were lit by the devotees. A laser show that portrayed various facets of Ramayana, a Hindu epic, and fireworks was also organised later.</p>

<p>India's peak holiday season is the time when people splurge on dresses, sweets, cars and other consumer goods that are vital for fuelling the economy.</p>

<p><strong>Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/diwali-special-not-just-india-these-countries-also-celebrate-the-festival-425785">Diwali special: Not just India, these countries also celebrate the festival</a></strong></p>

<p>Most activities are back to normal after India administered almost a billion COVID-19 vaccine doses.</p>

<p>President Ram Nath Kovind asked people to celebrate the festival together in a clean and safe manner, and to resolve to contribute in conservation and protection of the environment.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-border-tensions-indians-ditch-made-in-china-products-this-diwali-426429"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Amid border tensions, Indians ditch made-in-China products this Diwali</strong></a></p>

<p>Seeking to reduce the pollution, authorities like in previous years have banned firecrackers in cities with particularly bad air.</p>

<p>Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has introduced a resolution in the US Congress recognising the religious and historical significance of Diwali.</p>

<p>Recognising the historical and religious significance of Diwali, the resolution expresses its deepest respect for Indian-Americans and the Indian diaspora throughout the world on this significant occasion, he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The festival of lights, Diwali, is being celebrated all over the world on Thursday. One of the most popular Hindu festivals, it is seen as a celebration of the victory of good over evil.

The festival of lights, Diwali, is being celebrated all over the world on Thursday. One of the most popular Hindu festivals, it is seen as a celebration of the victory of good over evil. #Deepavali #DiwaliAtExpo2020 #AmritMahotsav #IndiaAtDubaiExpo #ExpoDubai2020@MEAIndia @IndianDiplomacy @IndembAbuDhabi @ficci_india @IndiaExpo2020 @AmritMahotsav @expo2020dubai https://t.co/FUe5XTQjiy pic.twitter.com/XOwsDzyFhI — India in Dubai (@cgidubai) November 3, 2021 × Team Sri Lanka performing today @ Deepotsav-2021, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India Watch their live performance on:https://t.co/46a6q1wMJN Time: 5:30 PM onwards Sharing here some photos of Deepotsav-2021 (November 1-5)@iccr_hq@IndiainSL @AmritMahotsav#AzadiKaAmritMahotsav pic.twitter.com/wrGS2ZGcBY — ICCR in Sri Lanka (@iccr_colombo) November 3, 2021 × Celebrating 6th #AyurvedaDay, Amb @dineshbhatia inaugurated Conference on "Ayurveda and Nutrition" co-organized with @ayurvedaprema. He highlighted growing reach of Ayurveda through Argentine Institutions, Experts & Nutritionists dedicated to its dissemination#AmritMahotsav pic.twitter.com/k9KRReRVjs — India in Argentina (@Indembarg) November 3, 2021 × Ambassador (Designate) @AkhileshIFS and Mrs Reeti Mishra attended Parkside Diwali Celebrations. pic.twitter.com/vssEFuAkIA — India in Ireland (Embassy of India, Dublin) (@IndiainIreland) November 3, 2021 × Rangoli, fireworks, lightings marked Diwali celebrations at Embassy Residence. It had august presence of the Minister of Culture, Govt. of Panama, H.E. Carlos Aguilar Navarro, Indian diaspora and friends of India. #AmritMahotsav #IndiaAt75 @MEAIndia @AmritMahotsav pic.twitter.com/viQ4hdBaQT — India in Panama (@IndiainPanama) November 3, 2021 × Let’s celebrate the festival of lights by illuminating each other's paths. Best wishes for a happy and prosperous Diwali from TECC to all our friends in India! pic.twitter.com/S63gUV3Dt6 — Taiwan in India (@TWIndia2) November 3, 2021 × Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to wish people a happy Diwali. "It is my wish that the festival brings happiness, prosperity, and good fortunes in everyone's life," he said. Diwali is celebrated with great fervour and gaiety all over India as it marks the return of Hindu god Lord Rama to Ayodhya in northern India after he defeated Ravana, the powerful king of Lanka. Devotees lit 1.2 million earthen lamps in India's northern temple town of Ayodhya, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) The 3-km-long bank of Sarayu River in the holy town glistened when all the lamps were lit by the devotees. A laser show that portrayed various facets of Ramayana, a Hindu epic, and fireworks was also organised later. India's peak holiday season is the time when people splurge on dresses, sweets, cars and other consumer goods that are vital for fuelling the economy. Also see | Diwali special: Not just India, these countries also celebrate the festival Most activities are back to normal after India administered almost a billion COVID-19 vaccine doses. President Ram Nath Kovind asked people to celebrate the festival together in a clean and safe manner, and to resolve to contribute in conservation and protection of the environment. Also read | Amid border tensions, Indians ditch made-in-China products this Diwali Seeking to reduce the pollution, authorities like in previous years have banned firecrackers in cities with particularly bad air. Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has introduced a resolution in the US Congress recognising the religious and historical significance of Diwali. Recognising the historical and religious significance of Diwali, the resolution expresses its deepest respect for Indian-Americans and the Indian diaspora throughout the world on this significant occasion, he said. (With inputs from agencies)

New York city's iconic World Trade Center has been lit up to showcase a pretty spectacular digital mural to celebrate the festival of lights, Deepavali.

New York: Spectacular digital mural on World Trade center podium for Diwali

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">As part of the celebration of Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, the north Indian city of Ayodhya set a new Guinness World Record by lighting 900,000 oil lamps and keeping them blazing for at least 45 minutes.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">Hindus believe the deity Lord Rama was born in Ayodhya.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">According to Hindu epic Ramayana, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita and brother Laxmana to Ayodhya after spending 14 years in exile and defeating the demon king Raavana.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">As dusk fell Wednesday in Ayodhya, thousands of volunteers lighted diyas along the Saryu river's banks, along roads, and at homes.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">Last year, the city lit&nbsp;606,569 oil lamps.&nbsp;</p>

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<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">Guinness World Records representatives presented Yogi Adityanath, the state's chief minister, with a certificate after watching the event with drone-mounted cameras, according to Uttar Pradesh government spokesperson Shishir Kumar.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As part of the celebration of Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, the north Indian city of Ayodhya set a new Guinness World Record by lighting 900,000 oil lamps and keeping them blazing for at least 45 minutes.

As part of the celebration of Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, the north Indian city of Ayodhya set a new Guinness World Record by lighting 900,000 oil lamps and keeping them blazing for at least 45 minutes. Hindus believe the deity Lord Rama was born in Ayodhya. According to Hindu epic Ramayana, Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita and brother Laxmana to Ayodhya after spending 14 years in exile and defeating the demon king Raavana. As dusk fell Wednesday in Ayodhya, thousands of volunteers lighted diyas along the Saryu river's banks, along roads, and at homes. Last year, the city lit 606,569 oil lamps. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) × Guinness World Records representatives presented Yogi Adityanath, the state's chief minister, with a certificate after watching the event with drone-mounted cameras, according to Uttar Pradesh government spokesperson Shishir Kumar. (With inputs from agencies)

Diwali in Ayodhya: Indian holy city lights record number of oil lamps

<p>As India celebrated Diwali,&nbsp;US President <strong>Joe Biden</strong> also greeted Indians on Diwali saying: "May the light of Diwali remind us that from darkness there is knowledge, wisdom, and truth. From division, unity."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">May the light of Diwali remind us that from darkness there is knowledge, wisdom, and truth. From division, unity. From despair, hope.<br />
<br />
To Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists celebrating in America and around the world — from the People’s House to yours, happy Diwali. <a href="https://t.co/1ubBePGB4f">pic.twitter.com/1ubBePGB4f</a></p>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1456271532783661057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"To Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists celebrating in America and around the world — from the People’s House to yours, happy Diwali," the US president said in a tweet.</p>

<p>US Vice President Kamala Harris also greeted everyone in India on Diwali in a video message.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights here in the United States and around the world. <a href="https://twitter.com/SecondGentleman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecondGentleman</a> and I extend our warmest wishes for a holiday filled with light, love, and prosperity. <a href="https://t.co/OAoEG3OyGd">pic.twitter.com/OAoEG3OyGd</a></p>
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) <a href="https://twitter.com/VP/status/1456271264419622912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>UK Prime minister<strong> Boris Johnson</strong>&nbsp;also wished everyone in India Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas.</p>

<p>"Namaste, it's Boris Johnson here, sending wishes on this year's festival of lights. I hope that this Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas for our Sikh friends are truly special. This time of the year is about getting together with family and friends and if think back to last November there's no doubt we have come a long way," the UK PM said in a video message.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas to everyone celebrating here in the UK and around the world!<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a> <a href="https://t.co/iJATgyxQII">pic.twitter.com/iJATgyxQII</a></p>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1456191017800146945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"I want to once again say a huge thank you to Britain's Hindus, Sikhs, Jains for everything you have done to support the vulnerable and help keep safe over the last eighteen months," the UK PM added.</p>

<p>"This year the wheel of light is back up in Leicester, events are being held across the country and as you look forward to the celebrations and to feasting perhaps some delicious <em>mithai(sweets)</em>, we can reflect on the powerful message at the heart of this festival of good triumphing over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance," PM Johnson added.</p>

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also joined in the celebration to greet Indians on the festive occasion.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To everyone celebrating, happy Diwali! As we work to finish the fight against COVID-19, this festival celebrating the victory of light over darkness - and the power of hope and knowledge - will resonate more than ever. My statement: <a href="https://t.co/esJwkPon6V">https://t.co/esJwkPon6V</a> <a href="https://t.co/MxbeuDHq6e">pic.twitter.com/MxbeuDHq6e</a></p>
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1456240433219182595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;Naftali Bennett who had recently met <strong>PM Modi</strong> at the UN climate summit in Glasgow also greeted the Indian prime minister and the people while also wishing in Hindi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">Happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a> to my friend <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> and to all the people celebrating in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> and around the world.<br />
समस्त भारतवासियों को दिवाली के पावन अवसर पर हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ<br />
🤲 🪔 ✨</p>
— Naftali Bennett בנט (@naftalibennett) <a href="https://twitter.com/naftalibennett/status/1456188656683728901?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Diwali messages also poured in from Singapore and Australia.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">உலகெங்கும் இருக்கும் சிங்கப்பூரர்களுக்கு, இனிய தீபாவளி வாழ்த்துகள்! Happy Deepavali to Singaporeans around the world!🪔 <a href="https://t.co/63oGf6USls">pic.twitter.com/63oGf6USls</a></p>
— Vivian Balakrishnan (@VivianBala) <a href="https://twitter.com/VivianBala/status/1455897558040158212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As Comprehensive Strategic Partners, the close relationship between 🇦🇺 &amp; 🇮🇳 is underpinned by friendship. As we celebrate the Festival of Lights, I wish our good friends in 🇮🇳 &amp; those in 🇦🇺’s vibrant multicultural communities a happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a>.<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/dfat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DFAT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AusHCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AusHCIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> <a href="https://t.co/2osCpvcGOa">pic.twitter.com/2osCpvcGOa</a></p>
— Marise Payne (@MarisePayne) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarisePayne/status/1456139015967498248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


As India celebrated Diwali, US President Joe Biden also greeted Indians on Diwali saying: "May the light of Diwali remind us that from darkness there is knowledge, wisdom, and truth.

As India celebrated Diwali, US President Joe Biden also greeted Indians on Diwali saying: "May the light of Diwali remind us that from darkness there is knowledge, wisdom, and truth. From division, unity." May the light of Diwali remind us that from darkness there is knowledge, wisdom, and truth. From division, unity. From despair, hope. To Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists celebrating in America and around the world — from the People’s House to yours, happy Diwali. pic.twitter.com/1ubBePGB4f — President Biden (@POTUS) November 4, 2021 × "To Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists celebrating in America and around the world — from the People’s House to yours, happy Diwali," the US president said in a tweet. US Vice President Kamala Harris also greeted everyone in India on Diwali in a video message. Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights here in the United States and around the world. @SecondGentleman and I extend our warmest wishes for a holiday filled with light, love, and prosperity. pic.twitter.com/OAoEG3OyGd — Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) November 4, 2021 × UK Prime minister Boris Johnson also wished everyone in India Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas. "Namaste, it's Boris Johnson here, sending wishes on this year's festival of lights. I hope that this Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas for our Sikh friends are truly special. This time of the year is about getting together with family and friends and if think back to last November there's no doubt we have come a long way," the UK PM said in a video message. Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas to everyone celebrating here in the UK and around the world! #Diwali pic.twitter.com/iJATgyxQII — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) November 4, 2021 × "I want to once again say a huge thank you to Britain's Hindus, Sikhs, Jains for everything you have done to support the vulnerable and help keep safe over the last eighteen months," the UK PM added. "This year the wheel of light is back up in Leicester, events are being held across the country and as you look forward to the celebrations and to feasting perhaps some delicious mithai(sweets), we can reflect on the powerful message at the heart of this festival of good triumphing over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance," PM Johnson added. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also joined in the celebration to greet Indians on the festive occasion. To everyone celebrating, happy Diwali! As we work to finish the fight against COVID-19, this festival celebrating the victory of light over darkness - and the power of hope and knowledge - will resonate more than ever. My statement: https://t.co/esJwkPon6V pic.twitter.com/MxbeuDHq6e — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 4, 2021 × Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett who had recently met PM Modi at the UN climate summit in Glasgow also greeted the Indian prime minister and the people while also wishing in Hindi. Happy #Diwali to my friend @NarendraModi and to all the people celebrating in #India and around the world. समस्त भारतवासियों को दिवाली के पावन अवसर पर हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ 🤲 🪔 ✨ — Naftali Bennett בנט (@naftalibennett) November 4, 2021 × Diwali messages also poured in from Singapore and Australia. உலகெங்கும் இருக்கும் சிங்கப்பூரர்களுக்கு, இனிய தீபாவளி வாழ்த்துகள்! Happy Deepavali to Singaporeans around the world!🪔 pic.twitter.com/63oGf6USls — Vivian Balakrishnan (@VivianBala) November 3, 2021 × As Comprehensive Strategic Partners, the close relationship between 🇦🇺 & 🇮🇳 is underpinned by friendship. As we celebrate the Festival of Lights, I wish our good friends in 🇮🇳 & those in 🇦🇺’s vibrant multicultural communities a happy #Diwali. @DFAT @AusHCIndia @DrSJaishankar pic.twitter.com/2osCpvcGOa — Marise Payne (@MarisePayne) November 4, 2021 ×

US President Biden, VP Kamala Harris, other world leaders wish Happy Diwali

A Diwali-themed animation has been lit upon the One World Trade Center, firework planned on the Hudson river.

'All American Diwali' being celebrated at the World Trade Center

<p>It's a special Diwali for scores of Rajinikanth fans. The superstar's film 'Annaatthe' hit the screens on Thursday across Tamil Nadu and elsewhere. Fans celebrated&nbsp;the film's release by flocking to cinemas and bursting firecrackers. Several cinema halls in Tamil Nadu screened the first show of the film as early as 4 am.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The actor's fans and others tracking Tamil films in social media said the movie 'is a family entertainer by Thalaivar,' a 'sentimental-action drama,' a 'brother-sister sentiment flick,' and so on.<br />
<br />
For many, Rajinikanth's performance also brought back memories of his old films like 'Mullum Malarum' which was noted for the portrayal of the love and affection between a brother and sister.<br />
<br />
Several fans, who burst firecrackers and danced their way to movie halls, expect the movie to perform well at the box office similar to hits like the 'Muthu'(1995), which were also released on Deepavali.<br />
<br />
While D Imman is the music composer, lyrics are by Viveka and the film is directed by ace filmmaker Siva, noted for his commercial Tamil hits.<br />
<br />
The release of the film is significant as for the first time in 26 years, a Rajinikanth movie has released on Diwali. In 1995, Rajinikanth's 'Muthu' had hit the big screens on Diwali.</p>

<p>The film 'Annaatthe' also features a peppy number, 'Annaatthe Annaatthe Varen' &nbsp;sung by late legendary singer S P Balasubrahmanyam.<br />
<br />
Sources close to Rajinikanth said the film "is witnessing a global release in approximately 1,000 screens."<br />
Sun Pictures, the production house tweeted "#Annaatthe Thiruvizha (festival) aarambam (begins) From Today in theatres near you!"<br />
<br />
Annaatthe is also the first Tamil film to hit the screens after Rajinikanth made it categorical that he would not be venturing into politics. The actor recently received the coveted Dadasaheb Phalke Award and days ago underwent a procedure here at a hospital to restore blood supply to the brain.</p>


It's a special Diwali for scores of Rajinikanth fans. The superstar's film 'Annaatthe' hit the screens on Thursday across Tamil Nadu and elsewhere. Fans celebrated the film's release by flocking to cinemas and bursting firecrackers.

It's a special Diwali for scores of Rajinikanth fans. The superstar's film 'Annaatthe' hit the screens on Thursday across Tamil Nadu and elsewhere. Fans celebrated the film's release by flocking to cinemas and bursting firecrackers. Several cinema halls in Tamil Nadu screened the first show of the film as early as 4 am. The actor's fans and others tracking Tamil films in social media said the movie 'is a family entertainer by Thalaivar,' a 'sentimental-action drama,' a 'brother-sister sentiment flick,' and so on. For many, Rajinikanth's performance also brought back memories of his old films like 'Mullum Malarum' which was noted for the portrayal of the love and affection between a brother and sister. Several fans, who burst firecrackers and danced their way to movie halls, expect the movie to perform well at the box office similar to hits like the 'Muthu'(1995), which were also released on Deepavali. While D Imman is the music composer, lyrics are by Viveka and the film is directed by ace filmmaker Siva, noted for his commercial Tamil hits. The release of the film is significant as for the first time in 26 years, a Rajinikanth movie has released on Diwali. In 1995, Rajinikanth's 'Muthu' had hit the big screens on Diwali. The film 'Annaatthe' also features a peppy number, 'Annaatthe Annaatthe Varen' sung by late legendary singer S P Balasubrahmanyam. Sources close to Rajinikanth said the film "is witnessing a global release in approximately 1,000 screens." Sun Pictures, the production house tweeted "#Annaatthe Thiruvizha (festival) aarambam (begins) From Today in theatres near you!" Annaatthe is also the first Tamil film to hit the screens after Rajinikanth made it categorical that he would not be venturing into politics. The actor recently received the coveted Dadasaheb Phalke Award and days ago underwent a procedure here at a hospital to restore blood supply to the brain.

'Annaatthe' becomes Rajinikanth's first film in 26 years to release on Diwali

The festival of lights Diwali is India's biggest festival and is celebrated with great enthusiasm around the country. Indian PM Narendra Modi has continued his tradition of celebrating Diwali with the soldiers.

PM Narendra Modi celebrates Diwali with Indian forces, pays tribute to the martyred soldiers

Do you know there are over 300 versions of the Ramayana? The great Indian epic left its footprints throughout Southeast Asia. Watch how Diwali is celebrated throughout the world. Wion Wideangle brings you the 'Many Stories Of Diwali' with Ashwin Sanghi and Suhag A Shukla.

Wion Wideangle: The many stories of Diwali

Indian PM Narendra Modi calls soldiers 'family members,' lauds them for surgical strike

Malaysian Hindus are celebrating the auspicious festival of Diwali; Devotees visited temple around Kuala Lumpur, the shops have reopened after pandemic lull.

'We have been waiting for this,' Malaysian Hindus celebrate Diwali, shops opened after pandemic lull

<p>Even before Diwali, the air quality in Delhi is poor. The Indian capital's air has once again surpassed all pollution norms. The most polluted region in Delhi is Bawana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After four days of 'bad' air, air quality dropped to the 'very poor' level of the Central Pollution Control Board's categorisation on Wednesday, with an air quality index (AQI) score of 330.</p>

<p>The air quality in Delhi's neighbouring cities of Faridabad (306), Ghaziabad (334) and Noida (303) was likewise quite poor.</p>

<p>Previously, on October 17, Delhi's highest AQI of the season was 298, which falls in the "poor" category.</p>

<p>An AQI of zero to 50 is regarded 'good,' 51 to 100 is considered 'satisfactory,' 101 to 200 is considered 'moderate,' 201 to 300 is considered 'poor,' 301 to 400 is 'very poor,' and 401 to 500 is 'severe.'&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India: Delhi's AQI enters 'very poor' category for the 1st time in this season</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-delhis-aqi-enters-very-poor-category-for-the-1st-time-in-this-season-426596/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This year's rainy season lasted until the end of October.&nbsp;This made October a lot cleaner than it had been in prior years.</p>

<p>At the same time, it pushed back the harvesting season.</p>

<p>Just before Diwali, Punjab and Haryana are seeing major stubble burning.</p>

<p>Until November 2, more over 3,000 fires were reported in Punjab, with over 200 fires reported in Haryana on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The harvesting cycle was also delayed as a result of the substantial rains that occurred until the third week of October.</p>

<p>According to the India Meteorological Department, due to higher stubble burning, the contribution of stubble burning to pollution during Diwali would be more than 5%.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Even before Diwali, the air quality in Delhi is poor. The Indian capital's air has once again surpassed all pollution norms. The most polluted region in Delhi is Bawana.

Even before Diwali, the air quality in Delhi is poor. The Indian capital's air has once again surpassed all pollution norms. The most polluted region in Delhi is Bawana. After four days of 'bad' air, air quality dropped to the 'very poor' level of the Central Pollution Control Board's categorisation on Wednesday, with an air quality index (AQI) score of 330. The air quality in Delhi's neighbouring cities of Faridabad (306), Ghaziabad (334) and Noida (303) was likewise quite poor. Previously, on October 17, Delhi's highest AQI of the season was 298, which falls in the "poor" category. An AQI of zero to 50 is regarded 'good,' 51 to 100 is considered 'satisfactory,' 101 to 200 is considered 'moderate,' 201 to 300 is considered 'poor,' 301 to 400 is 'very poor,' and 401 to 500 is 'severe.' Watch | India: Delhi's AQI enters 'very poor' category for the 1st time in this season This year's rainy season lasted until the end of October. This made October a lot cleaner than it had been in prior years. At the same time, it pushed back the harvesting season. Just before Diwali, Punjab and Haryana are seeing major stubble burning. Until November 2, more over 3,000 fires were reported in Punjab, with over 200 fires reported in Haryana on Tuesday. The harvesting cycle was also delayed as a result of the substantial rains that occurred until the third week of October. According to the India Meteorological Department, due to higher stubble burning, the contribution of stubble burning to pollution during Diwali would be more than 5%. (With inputs from agencies)

The air in Indian capital city Delhi is already bad even before Diwali

U.S. is introducing a bill to declare Diwali as a federal holiday, If passed, 5 Mn Indian Americans will have the chance to celebrate Diwali thousands of miles away from home. Diwali is already a national holiday in many countries. Palki Sharma tells you about the soft power of Diwali.

Gravitas: The soft power of Diwali

<p>In India, Chinese goods are expected to incur significant losses ahead of Diwali and other festivities.</p>

<p>Cheaper Chinese items like firecrackers, ornamental LED lights, lamps, and lanterns, which used to sell like hotcakes ahead of Diwali, have lost their appeal due to anti-China sentiments.</p>

<p>Buyers are gravitating toward handcrafted items this year.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmaker-to-introduce-bill-in-congress-to-make-diwali-a-federal-holiday-426018"><strong>Also read | US lawmaker to introduce Bill in Congress to make Diwali a federal holiday</strong></a><br />
<br />
The fact that Indians are banning crackers and other low-cost celebratory items from China this holiday season means higher earnings for India's domestic industry.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | Gravitas: Crashing drones, rising debt: China's rough patch</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-crashing-drones-rising-debt-chinas-rough-patch-418744/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has predicted that Chinese exporters may suffer losses of up to Rs 500 billion this year as a result of Indians boycotting Chinese items in domestic marketplaces.</p>

<p>China has long been India's largest provider of Diwali merchandise, ranging from inexpensive firecrackers to colourful lights, lamps, gift items, god and goddess idols, home decorations, and fake flowers.<br />
<br />
According to a poll conducted by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), which represents millions of small traders, imports have increased from US$2 billion in 2001 to US$70 billion in 2020.</p>

<p>However, with strained relations between the two countries and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's push for manufacturing self-sufficiency, the CAIT has spearheaded calls for customers to boycott Chinese goods.</p>

<p>According to the confederation's recent assessment of 20 "distribution cities," no orders for Diwali products, firecrackers, or other things were placed with Chinese exporters this year.</p>

<p>But there's one more fact: despite boycott calls, India's imports from China have soared.</p>

<p>Between April and July 2021, Chinese imports increased by more than 66% to US$27.66 billion, according to data from India's Commerce and Industry Ministry.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In India, Chinese goods are expected to incur significant losses ahead of Diwali and other festivities. Cheaper Chinese items like firecrackers, ornamental LED lights, lamps, and lanterns, which used to sell like hotcakes ahead of Diwali, have lost their appeal due to anti-China sentiments.

In India, Chinese goods are expected to incur significant losses ahead of Diwali and other festivities. Cheaper Chinese items like firecrackers, ornamental LED lights, lamps, and lanterns, which used to sell like hotcakes ahead of Diwali, have lost their appeal due to anti-China sentiments. Buyers are gravitating toward handcrafted items this year. Also read | US lawmaker to introduce Bill in Congress to make Diwali a federal holiday The fact that Indians are banning crackers and other low-cost celebratory items from China this holiday season means higher earnings for India's domestic industry. Watch | Gravitas: Crashing drones, rising debt: China's rough patch The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has predicted that Chinese exporters may suffer losses of up to Rs 500 billion this year as a result of Indians boycotting Chinese items in domestic marketplaces. China has long been India's largest provider of Diwali merchandise, ranging from inexpensive firecrackers to colourful lights, lamps, gift items, god and goddess idols, home decorations, and fake flowers. According to a poll conducted by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), which represents millions of small traders, imports have increased from US$2 billion in 2001 to US$70 billion in 2020. However, with strained relations between the two countries and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's push for manufacturing self-sufficiency, the CAIT has spearheaded calls for customers to boycott Chinese goods. According to the confederation's recent assessment of 20 "distribution cities," no orders for Diwali products, firecrackers, or other things were placed with Chinese exporters this year. But there's one more fact: despite boycott calls, India's imports from China have soared. Between April and July 2021, Chinese imports increased by more than 66% to US$27.66 billion, according to data from India's Commerce and Industry Ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid border tensions, Indians ditch made-in-China products this Diwali

<p>The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department has announced huge discounts and offers for tourists coming to the Kashmir valley. A slash of around 40 per cent slash has been announced on the rates of hotels and&nbsp;houseboats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This discount is being given as a Diwali gift. As a result of these offers, Kashmir tourism is picking up in the Autumn season after years of stagnation. The fall season has seen a record number of tourist arrivals and bookings for the first time in many years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/diwali-muhurat-trading-2021-check-date-timing-and-other-details-425816" hreflang="en">Diwali Muhurat trading 2021: Check date, timing, and other details</a></strong></p>

<p>''The government did the promotions in different parts of the country. There was a houseboat show organised which also helped. Diwali is around the corner and there is another celebration called Sindhu Darshan. We are getting a lot of queries about that too. We are expecting a lot of tourists in the festive season. We have special discounts, around 40 per cent of the discount for tourists staying in houseboats. The people around the world had a financial crunch and that's why we are giving such offers. It will help the Kashmir tourism industry'' said Manzoor Ahmad Pakhtoon, Vice President, Houseboat Association Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tourists who are in Kashmir are welcoming the step taken by the government to provide offers and discounts. At around 50 per cent occupancy already, stakeholders expect it to grow even more in the coming days. Tourists in the valley are already enjoying and taking advantage of these offers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kashmir-gets-its-first-floating-cinema-famous-bollywood-film-kashmir-ki-kali-played-on-big-screen-425140" hreflang="en">India: Kashmir gets its first floating cinema, famous Bollywood film 'Kashmir Ki Kali' played on big screen</a></strong></p>

<p>''Kashmir is nothing like what we see in the news. It's beautiful and the people are amazing, the food is great. Tourists should come here and visit. It's nothing that we think of it. But once we came here we realized how beautiful it is. The 40 per cent discount given by the tourism industry is amazing. It's the best place to come'' said Monu Grewal, a tourist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tourists are also asking others to visit the valley during this festive season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Kashmir is beyond words. Every tourist needs to enjoy the beauty of this place and the government has given huge discounts for tourists to come here and people need to visit. Kashmir and Diwali celebrations are adding more to the festive season. We are enjoying the Shikaras, the beauty of this place'' says Kush Kant, another tourist.</p>

<p>Additionally, the government of Jammu and Kashmir is also making preparations for winter tourism. This season will also feature special winter sports activities.&nbsp;</p>


The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department has announced huge discounts and offers for tourists coming to the Kashmir valley. A slash of around 40 per cent slash has been announced on the rates of hotels and houseboats.

The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department has announced huge discounts and offers for tourists coming to the Kashmir valley. A slash of around 40 per cent slash has been announced on the rates of hotels and houseboats. This discount is being given as a Diwali gift. As a result of these offers, Kashmir tourism is picking up in the Autumn season after years of stagnation. The fall season has seen a record number of tourist arrivals and bookings for the first time in many years. Also read | Diwali Muhurat trading 2021: Check date, timing, and other details ''The government did the promotions in different parts of the country. There was a houseboat show organised which also helped. Diwali is around the corner and there is another celebration called Sindhu Darshan. We are getting a lot of queries about that too. We are expecting a lot of tourists in the festive season. We have special discounts, around 40 per cent of the discount for tourists staying in houseboats. The people around the world had a financial crunch and that's why we are giving such offers. It will help the Kashmir tourism industry'' said Manzoor Ahmad Pakhtoon, Vice President, Houseboat Association Kashmir. The tourists who are in Kashmir are welcoming the step taken by the government to provide offers and discounts. At around 50 per cent occupancy already, stakeholders expect it to grow even more in the coming days. Tourists in the valley are already enjoying and taking advantage of these offers. Also read | India: Kashmir gets its first floating cinema, famous Bollywood film 'Kashmir Ki Kali' played on big screen ''Kashmir is nothing like what we see in the news. It's beautiful and the people are amazing, the food is great. Tourists should come here and visit. It's nothing that we think of it. But once we came here we realized how beautiful it is. The 40 per cent discount given by the tourism industry is amazing. It's the best place to come'' said Monu Grewal, a tourist. Tourists are also asking others to visit the valley during this festive season. ''Kashmir is beyond words. Every tourist needs to enjoy the beauty of this place and the government has given huge discounts for tourists to come here and people need to visit. Kashmir and Diwali celebrations are adding more to the festive season. We are enjoying the Shikaras, the beauty of this place'' says Kush Kant, another tourist. Additionally, the government of Jammu and Kashmir is also making preparations for winter tourism. This season will also feature special winter sports activities.

Kashmir tourism industry announces special discounts on Diwali, tourist inflow increases

<p>Between 6:15 and 7:15 p.m. on November 4, Indian stock exchanges will hold their usual one-hour special 'Muhurat' trading session, which is outside of normal trading hours but dictated by astrologically designated auspicious intervals of the day.</p>

<p>This year's session will usher in Samvat 2078, which, according to the Hindu calendar, begins on Diwali.</p>

<p>All year long, Mahurat Trading is supposed to bring success and wealth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Muhurat trading on Diwali is considered to bring money and prosperity for the rest of the year, since it also marks the start of the New Year.</p>

<p>The traders on Dalal Street are excited for the New Year.</p>

<p>Lakshmi Poojan will begin at 4.45 p.m., followed by the felicitation of vaccination warriors at 5.30 p.m., prior to the Mahurat trade.</p>

<p>The opening bell ringing ritual, known as Mahurat Trading, will commence at 6.15 a.m.</p>

<p>The trading world has observed stock trading on this day for more than half a century as part of a historic symbolic custom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They think it is a good omen to exchange tokens on this day to appease Goddess Lakshmi, the Indian goddess of riches and prosperity, for her favours throughout the Samvat year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Between 6:15 and 7:15 p.m. on November 4, Indian stock exchanges will hold their usual one-hour special 'Muhurat' trading session, which is outside of normal trading hours but dictated by astrologically designated auspicious intervals of the day.

Between 6:15 and 7:15 p.m. on November 4, Indian stock exchanges will hold their usual one-hour special 'Muhurat' trading session, which is outside of normal trading hours but dictated by astrologically designated auspicious intervals of the day. This year's session will usher in Samvat 2078, which, according to the Hindu calendar, begins on Diwali. All year long, Mahurat Trading is supposed to bring success and wealth. Muhurat trading on Diwali is considered to bring money and prosperity for the rest of the year, since it also marks the start of the New Year. The traders on Dalal Street are excited for the New Year. Lakshmi Poojan will begin at 4.45 p.m., followed by the felicitation of vaccination warriors at 5.30 p.m., prior to the Mahurat trade. The opening bell ringing ritual, known as Mahurat Trading, will commence at 6.15 a.m. The trading world has observed stock trading on this day for more than half a century as part of a historic symbolic custom. They think it is a good omen to exchange tokens on this day to appease Goddess Lakshmi, the Indian goddess of riches and prosperity, for her favours throughout the Samvat year. (With inputs from agencies)

Diwali Muhurat trading 2021: Check date, timing, and other details

<p>New day, new outrage. In a country where issues of poverty, hunger, growing fuel prices, COVID-19 cases and farmers agitation continue to plague society, we Indians still find time to outrage on the minutest little details. In the era of cancel culture, Indians continue to get offended at everything based on 'religious sentiments', easy to label anyone and anything as anti-Hindu without a coherent reason behind it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the latest addition to things that outrage our fellow countrymen, an ad by popular clothing brand Fab India has been termed as 'anti-Hindu' for promoting its new festive line titled 'Jashne-e-Riwaz'. Certain political leaders called out the popular brand for associating an Urdu term to the upcoming Hindu festival Diwali. The term 'Jashn-e-Riwaaz' is loosely translated as 'celebrations of rituals/ festive celebrations'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ad campaign was only meant for its digital audience. As objections around the campaign gained momentum over the weekend on social media, the brand quickly withdrew the ad perhaps fearing a further backlash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The now-deleted social media post had this message, "As we welcome the festival of love and light, Jashn-e-Riwaaz by Fabindia is a collection that beautifully pays homage to Indian culture."</p>

<p>The ad read, "The rustle of silk... &nbsp;gleam of zari. The sparkle of jewels... fragrance of flowers in hair. The sweetness of mithai &amp; happiness of homecoming. Let the festivities begin with 'Jashn-e-Riwaaz".</p>

<p>It had all started when&nbsp;MP Tejasvi Surya, also a youth leader, called out the campaign terming it as 'Abrahamisation of Hindu festivals'. Surya alleged that the models in the campaign were not wearing traditional Hindu attires and hence must be called out and that a brand like "Fabindia must face economic costs for such deliberate misadventures."</p>

<p>The image accompanying the campaign had a bunch of women and a man dressed in the brand's finest clothes- in Kurta Pajama jackets, kurtas and skirts with elegant stoles and sarees- all in hues of red and gold- traditional colours of festival season in India.</p>

<p>I tried hard to look at the image- trying to understand which of these clothes had suddenly become anti-Hindu. The kurta pyjama that the male model is seen wearing is something that Surya himself has been seen wearing often at the parliament. He has also been spotted in Nehru jackets with a formal shirt- and trousers- an outfit that we Indians over the last 100 years have borrowed from the west. But Surya wasn't talking about the male model's clothes. Then perhaps the saree that another model is seen wearing seated at the backdrop could have caused problems, but last I remembered- the saree was an outfit that has been termed as India's gift to the world. The only 'objectionable' outfit that I could fathom was of a model dressed in a Kurta/Tunic and skirt with a stole - a preferred combination for several Indian women during the festive occasions the last few years. He also pointed out how the models were not wearing <em>bindi, </em>synonymous with Hindu women. Clearly, the young leader is unaware of how women dress in urban areas of the country.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Surya's rather outlandish criticism comes right before the country celebrates its biggest festival Diwali where people irrespective of their religion celebrate it with great vigour all over the country. Did a campaign that celebrates a festival of light need a religious undertone? In the past few years, the country has often been in news for dividing its people based on religion, caste and creed- something that has drawn severe criticism from the west.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Irrespective of the religious undercurrents that have been brewing in the country, some festivals are celebrated with great aplomb, with people going above and beyond their faith. Diwali is one such festival. Just like Christmas and New Year's - typically non-Hindu festivals- that are marked as important days in the holiday calendar.<br />
<br />
India has for centuries has been known for its diverse culture that sets its people apart and yet unites them. That's what always made this country unique. Yet after so many years, when the west is looking at every move that the country makes, leaders like Surya and certain self-righteous, self-proclaimed custodians of our culture need to outrage and create a divide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As an influential public personality, Surya perhaps should invest more time in dividing those who have outrightly rejected vaccines in the country. Call them out, influence others to do the same- make them understand how not taking coronavirus vaccine is the biggest threat to nationhood at this hour. A brand's advertisement cannot dwindle our faith in our religion. The foundation of Hinduism has never been this weak, Sir. It has been always been inclusive and evolving.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interestingly, ignorance of some has also led to Urdu being termed as non-Indian. For the uninitiated, Urdu originates from Hindustani and is an amalgamation of multiple languages like Persian, Hindi, and Dakhini. Yes, it is now the official language of Pakistan but it also is one of the official languages in India. So terming Urdu as anti-Indian or non-Hindu is also technically incorrect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The backlash comes a year after jewellery brand T<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tanishq-pulls-down-new-advertisement-after-being-accused-of-promoting-love-jihad-334914">anishq was also slammed for creating a similar ad</a> celebrating diversity and religious tolerance. Fab India is not the first brand to have faced criticism based on religious lines. Several ads in the past, promoting communal harmony have been termed as anti-Hindu or worse accused of 'love jihad'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/boycotttanishq-trends-again-this-time-for-an-ad-on-diwali-341887">#BoycottTanishq trends again, this time for an ad on Diwali</a></p>

<p>It also is pertinent here to point out that how easily we succumb to pressure. Fab India was quick to pull down the ad, explaining that it was not its Diwali campaign and that 'Jhil Mil se Diwali' collection has yet to be launched. Last year too Tanishq was quick to retract the ad after facing backlash for spreading 'love jihad'. But shouldn't popular brands, with loyal customer base be agents of change? The intention of such ads- apart from marketing- is also to spread a positive message in a society that is often misguided by a few. By retracting, they too succumb to the pressure of a certain faction instead of agreeing with the majority who have sided and applauded their messaging. If brands have the vision to promote communal harmony via ads, they should also have the courage to stick by what they promote instead of crumbling under pressure.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/as-tanishq-pulls-down-its-advertisement-heres-a-look-back-at-other-similar-viral-ads-that-promoted-communal-harmony-335175">As Tanishq pulls down its advertisement, here's a look back at other similar viral ads that promoted communal harmony</a></p>

<p>With each passing day, the discourse just gets lower. Today it is an ad, it could be about the food we eat or the way we chose to celebrate personal occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. There is a need to draw a line somewhere, there is a need to overlook those who have off late developed a habit of outrage. The culture of getting offended needs to be cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></p>


New day, new outrage. In a country where issues of poverty, hunger, growing fuel prices, COVID-19 cases and farmers agitation continue to plague society, we Indians still find time to outrage on the minutest little details.

New day, new outrage. In a country where issues of poverty, hunger, growing fuel prices, COVID-19 cases and farmers agitation continue to plague society, we Indians still find time to outrage on the minutest little details. In the era of cancel culture, Indians continue to get offended at everything based on 'religious sentiments', easy to label anyone and anything as anti-Hindu without a coherent reason behind it. In the latest addition to things that outrage our fellow countrymen, an ad by popular clothing brand Fab India has been termed as 'anti-Hindu' for promoting its new festive line titled 'Jashne-e-Riwaz'. Certain political leaders called out the popular brand for associating an Urdu term to the upcoming Hindu festival Diwali. The term 'Jashn-e-Riwaaz' is loosely translated as 'celebrations of rituals/ festive celebrations'. The ad campaign was only meant for its digital audience. As objections around the campaign gained momentum over the weekend on social media, the brand quickly withdrew the ad perhaps fearing a further backlash. The now-deleted social media post had this message, "As we welcome the festival of love and light, Jashn-e-Riwaaz by Fabindia is a collection that beautifully pays homage to Indian culture." The ad read, "The rustle of silk... gleam of zari. The sparkle of jewels... fragrance of flowers in hair. The sweetness of mithai & happiness of homecoming. Let the festivities begin with 'Jashn-e-Riwaaz". It had all started when MP Tejasvi Surya, also a youth leader, called out the campaign terming it as 'Abrahamisation of Hindu festivals'. Surya alleged that the models in the campaign were not wearing traditional Hindu attires and hence must be called out and that a brand like "Fabindia must face economic costs for such deliberate misadventures." The image accompanying the campaign had a bunch of women and a man dressed in the brand's finest clothes- in Kurta Pajama jackets, kurtas and skirts with elegant stoles and sarees- all in hues of red and gold- traditional colours of festival season in India. I tried hard to look at the image- trying to understand which of these clothes had suddenly become anti-Hindu. The kurta pyjama that the male model is seen wearing is something that Surya himself has been seen wearing often at the parliament. He has also been spotted in Nehru jackets with a formal shirt- and trousers- an outfit that we Indians over the last 100 years have borrowed from the west. But Surya wasn't talking about the male model's clothes. Then perhaps the saree that another model is seen wearing seated at the backdrop could have caused problems, but last I remembered- the saree was an outfit that has been termed as India's gift to the world. The only 'objectionable' outfit that I could fathom was of a model dressed in a Kurta/Tunic and skirt with a stole - a preferred combination for several Indian women during the festive occasions the last few years. He also pointed out how the models were not wearing bindi, synonymous with Hindu women. Clearly, the young leader is unaware of how women dress in urban areas of the country. Surya's rather outlandish criticism comes right before the country celebrates its biggest festival Diwali where people irrespective of their religion celebrate it with great vigour all over the country. Did a campaign that celebrates a festival of light need a religious undertone? In the past few years, the country has often been in news for dividing its people based on religion, caste and creed- something that has drawn severe criticism from the west. Irrespective of the religious undercurrents that have been brewing in the country, some festivals are celebrated with great aplomb, with people going above and beyond their faith. Diwali is one such festival. Just like Christmas and New Year's - typically non-Hindu festivals- that are marked as important days in the holiday calendar. India has for centuries has been known for its diverse culture that sets its people apart and yet unites them. That's what always made this country unique. Yet after so many years, when the west is looking at every move that the country makes, leaders like Surya and certain self-righteous, self-proclaimed custodians of our culture need to outrage and create a divide. As an influential public personality, Surya perhaps should invest more time in dividing those who have outrightly rejected vaccines in the country. Call them out, influence others to do the same- make them understand how not taking coronavirus vaccine is the biggest threat to nationhood at this hour. A brand's advertisement cannot dwindle our faith in our religion. The foundation of Hinduism has never been this weak, Sir. It has been always been inclusive and evolving. Interestingly, ignorance of some has also led to Urdu being termed as non-Indian. For the uninitiated, Urdu originates from Hindustani and is an amalgamation of multiple languages like Persian, Hindi, and Dakhini. Yes, it is now the official language of Pakistan but it also is one of the official languages in India. So terming Urdu as anti-Indian or non-Hindu is also technically incorrect. The backlash comes a year after jewellery brand Tanishq was also slammed for creating a similar ad celebrating diversity and religious tolerance. Fab India is not the first brand to have faced criticism based on religious lines. Several ads in the past, promoting communal harmony have been termed as anti-Hindu or worse accused of 'love jihad'. #BoycottTanishq trends again, this time for an ad on Diwali It also is pertinent here to point out that how easily we succumb to pressure. Fab India was quick to pull down the ad, explaining that it was not its Diwali campaign and that 'Jhil Mil se Diwali' collection has yet to be launched. Last year too Tanishq was quick to retract the ad after facing backlash for spreading 'love jihad'. But shouldn't popular brands, with loyal customer base be agents of change? The intention of such ads- apart from marketing- is also to spread a positive message in a society that is often misguided by a few. By retracting, they too succumb to the pressure of a certain faction instead of agreeing with the majority who have sided and applauded their messaging. If brands have the vision to promote communal harmony via ads, they should also have the courage to stick by what they promote instead of crumbling under pressure. As Tanishq pulls down its advertisement, here's a look back at other similar viral ads that promoted communal harmony With each passing day, the discourse just gets lower. Today it is an ad, it could be about the food we eat or the way we chose to celebrate personal occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. There is a need to draw a line somewhere, there is a need to overlook those who have off late developed a habit of outrage. The culture of getting offended needs to be cancelled. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | 'Jashn-e-Outrage': India and its obsession with getting offended

This year let's celebrate an 'Eco-friendly Diwali'

<p>It's that time of the year when everything looks and feels brighter with the festivities around the corner.&nbsp;So in the hustle-bustle of doing everything right and on the budget at this point is a tough job!<br />
<br />
Apart from everything, the most tricky job is how to decorate your house in time, when everything is overpriced. Keeping that in mind, this year&nbsp;we suggest, play with your imagination and let your creativity blend in with your home decor.</p>

<p>To add that dash of creativity and jazz up your home on&nbsp;a low budget, here are some home decor easy ideas for you.</p>

<p><img alt="ff" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6eeee987-4198-4961-84a4-7ef621bd6299" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/5_11.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<strong>Wall decoration on a budget</strong></p>

<p>You can go bold by painting your house in some unique colour and that will make your house look different from all the others, but painting is an expensive thing. So, we suggest, instead of painting, go smart this year by doing some craftwork.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
You can get many beautiful wall stickers online or in the local markets that are easy to use and apply. From 3D to mirror finish, market is filled with high-quality wall-stickers that will surely add a premium feel to your home.</p>

<p><img alt="hula" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d620db12-db63-4c29-af63-d16bfc9c249a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_85.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<strong>Hula hoop chandeliers</strong><br />
<br />
Everyone loves chandeliers, but putting them in your home is a very costly job. While we don't suggest settling with recessed lighting or lamps, because nothing makes quite a statement like a chandelier. Quite frankly, there are some best ways to illuminate your room or home in a super fancy way<br />
<br />
Instead of spending big&nbsp;bucks, be creative. Take out your old hula hoop and wind the string lights randomly around it to create a beautiful chandelier that can be hung in your living room, outdoors, balcony, dining space etc. So this year, try these Diwali home decoration lights to get a glam look for your house.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="lanters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8a6eb7d3-3668-4e65-844f-dc0c75022d54" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_56.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<strong>Lanterns</strong><br />
<br />
Lanterns are not much heavy on the pockets, but still, as we are going for a low budget, so this year will make our own lanterns with some old stuff. Yes! First is a thread lantern, for making it you are going to need glue, a bowl, balloons, cotton yarn&nbsp;to make the lanterns and then simply search how to make thread lanterns and you will get hundreds on Youtube tutorials in just one&nbsp;search<br />
<br />
The second is bottle lanterns,&nbsp;for which take out your wine bottle or any glass empty bottle and put a bunch of lights in it. Now all you have to do is find the right place to put them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="oxi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6e3dbb47-5d28-4c77-bfcf-bcd840eecff2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_77.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<strong>Pick small oxidised items</strong><br />
<br />
With the right accessories and a good plan, you can make your more home attractive and quintessential - even if you are on a budget. Hopping on the new trend! Oxidised handicrafts; the collection includes the most stylish and aesthetically pleasing crafted items, whether it is an oxidized dry fruit box with paintings, silver-plated plate, pen holder, tray and many others. So, there are a variety of home decor items to help you achieve the look you want, and ensure you do so at a price that does not break your pocket.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


It's that time of the year when everything looks and feels brighter with the festivities around the corner. So in the hustle-bustle of doing everything right and on the budget at this point is a tough job!

It's that time of the year when everything looks and feels brighter with the festivities around the corner. So in the hustle-bustle of doing everything right and on the budget at this point is a tough job! Apart from everything, the most tricky job is how to decorate your house in time, when everything is overpriced. Keeping that in mind, this year we suggest, play with your imagination and let your creativity blend in with your home decor. To add that dash of creativity and jazz up your home on a low budget, here are some home decor easy ideas for you. Wall decoration on a budget You can go bold by painting your house in some unique colour and that will make your house look different from all the others, but painting is an expensive thing. So, we suggest, instead of painting, go smart this year by doing some craftwork. You can get many beautiful wall stickers online or in the local markets that are easy to use and apply. From 3D to mirror finish, market is filled with high-quality wall-stickers that will surely add a premium feel to your home. Hula hoop chandeliers Everyone loves chandeliers, but putting them in your home is a very costly job. While we don't suggest settling with recessed lighting or lamps, because nothing makes quite a statement like a chandelier. Quite frankly, there are some best ways to illuminate your room or home in a super fancy way Instead of spending big bucks, be creative. Take out your old hula hoop and wind the string lights randomly around it to create a beautiful chandelier that can be hung in your living room, outdoors, balcony, dining space etc. So this year, try these Diwali home decoration lights to get a glam look for your house. Lanterns Lanterns are not much heavy on the pockets, but still, as we are going for a low budget, so this year will make our own lanterns with some old stuff. Yes! First is a thread lantern, for making it you are going to need glue, a bowl, balloons, cotton yarn to make the lanterns and then simply search how to make thread lanterns and you will get hundreds on Youtube tutorials in just one search The second is bottle lanterns, for which take out your wine bottle or any glass empty bottle and put a bunch of lights in it. Now all you have to do is find the right place to put them. Pick small oxidised items With the right accessories and a good plan, you can make your more home attractive and quintessential - even if you are on a budget. Hopping on the new trend! Oxidised handicrafts; the collection includes the most stylish and aesthetically pleasing crafted items, whether it is an oxidized dry fruit box with paintings, silver-plated plate, pen holder, tray and many others. So, there are a variety of home decor items to help you achieve the look you want, and ensure you do so at a price that does not break your pocket.

Simple, low-budget creative hacks to light up your home this festive season

<p>As festival of lights Diwali approaches, UK Royal Mint is getting ready for traditional gold purchase made by Indians all over the world on the day of Dhanteras. The mint has launched a gold bar with Hindu Goddess of wealth Lakshmi on it.</p>

<p>The gold bar weighs 20 g and is made up of 999.9 fine gold. It will be presented to customers in a specially designed henna patterned sleeve.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gold-gains-as-soft-dollar-lifts-bullion-appeal-fed-in-focus-416319">Gold gains as soft dollar lifts bullion appeal; Fed in focus</a></strong></p>

<p>The Royal Mint website says that the gold bar is 'an auspicious gift which unites British minting excellence and time-honoured traditions</p>

<p>The gold bar has been designed by Emma Noble and has a thickness of 2.1 mm. Each gold bar will come with a unique serial number.</p>

<p>The gold bar will be available for purchase on the official Royal Mint website. Each bar has been priced at 1080 Pounds.</p>

<p>Gold is often bought as an investment and gold bars are not only purchased for the intrinsic value of the metal in it but designs and themes also add a value of collectibility. This may further increase the price.</p>

<p>The gold bar with Goddess of wealth and prosperity Lakshmi on it is likely to be a hit among Indians and British Indians in the UK.</p>


As festival of lights Diwali approaches, UK Royal Mint is getting ready for traditional gold purchase made by Indians all over the world on the day of Dhanteras.

As festival of lights Diwali approaches, UK Royal Mint is getting ready for traditional gold purchase made by Indians all over the world on the day of Dhanteras. The mint has launched a gold bar with Hindu Goddess of wealth Lakshmi on it. The gold bar weighs 20 g and is made up of 999.9 fine gold. It will be presented to customers in a specially designed henna patterned sleeve. Also Read | Gold gains as soft dollar lifts bullion appeal; Fed in focus The Royal Mint website says that the gold bar is 'an auspicious gift which unites British minting excellence and time-honoured traditions The gold bar has been designed by Emma Noble and has a thickness of 2.1 mm. Each gold bar will come with a unique serial number. The gold bar will be available for purchase on the official Royal Mint website. Each bar has been priced at 1080 Pounds. Gold is often bought as an investment and gold bars are not only purchased for the intrinsic value of the metal in it but designs and themes also add a value of collectibility. This may further increase the price. The gold bar with Goddess of wealth and prosperity Lakshmi on it is likely to be a hit among Indians and British Indians in the UK.

UK Royal Mint launches gold bar featuring Lakshmi, Hindu Goddess of wealth

<p>The storage, sale and use of firecrackers in the Indian capital during the Diwali season has been banned due to concerns over hazardous air pollution levels, the Delhi government said on Wednesday. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">पिछले 3 साल से दीवाली के समय दिल्ली के प्रदूषण की खतरनाक स्तिथि को देखते हुए पिछले साल की तरह इस बार भी हर प्रकार के पटाखों के भंडारण, बिक्री एवं उपयोग पर पूर्ण प्रतिबंध लगाया जा रहा है। जिससे लोगों की जिंदगी बचाई जा सके।</p>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1438032729635835906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a tweet, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "In view of the dangerous condition of Delhi's pollution during Diwali in the last three years, like last year, a complete ban is being imposed on storage, sale and use of all types of firecrackers. (This is) so that people's lives can be saved." &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India: Kashmir gets an art gallery</strong></p>

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<p>The chief minister acknowledged the last year's ban had been imposed late and had resulted in the losses for traders.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kejriwal added, "In view of the seriousness of pollution after the stocking of firecrackers by trader... last year a complete ban was imposed late, which caused losses to traders. It is an appeal to all traders... in view of the complete ban, do not store or sell firecrackers," he tweeted. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crime-against-women-in-indian-cities-decreased-by-21-in-2020-ncrb-413242" hreflang="en">Crime against women in Indian cities decreased by 21% in 2020: NCRB</a></strong></p>

<p>As air quality dipped in the week after Diwali last year, the city had witnessed a spike in coronavirus cases. &nbsp;</p>

<p>For some years, the air pollution levels in Delhi have been a huge concern. It has also sparked furious debates among people, who insist on bursting firecrackers, and the environment and health experts.&nbsp;</p>


The storage, sale and use of firecrackers in the Indian capital during the Diwali season has been banned due to concerns over hazardous air pollution levels, the Delhi government said on Wednesday.

The storage, sale and use of firecrackers in the Indian capital during the Diwali season has been banned due to concerns over hazardous air pollution levels, the Delhi government said on Wednesday. पिछले 3 साल से दीवाली के समय दिल्ली के प्रदूषण की खतरनाक स्तिथि को देखते हुए पिछले साल की तरह इस बार भी हर प्रकार के पटाखों के भंडारण, बिक्री एवं उपयोग पर पूर्ण प्रतिबंध लगाया जा रहा है। जिससे लोगों की जिंदगी बचाई जा सके। — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) September 15, 2021 × In a tweet, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "In view of the dangerous condition of Delhi's pollution during Diwali in the last three years, like last year, a complete ban is being imposed on storage, sale and use of all types of firecrackers. (This is) so that people's lives can be saved." Watch | India: Kashmir gets an art gallery × The chief minister acknowledged the last year's ban had been imposed late and had resulted in the losses for traders. Kejriwal added, "In view of the seriousness of pollution after the stocking of firecrackers by trader... last year a complete ban was imposed late, which caused losses to traders. It is an appeal to all traders... in view of the complete ban, do not store or sell firecrackers," he tweeted. Also Read | Crime against women in Indian cities decreased by 21% in 2020: NCRB As air quality dipped in the week after Diwali last year, the city had witnessed a spike in coronavirus cases. For some years, the air pollution levels in Delhi have been a huge concern. It has also sparked furious debates among people, who insist on bursting firecrackers, and the environment and health experts.

Indian capital bans storage, sale, use of firecrackers during Diwali over pollution concerns

<p>US President-elect Joe Biden took to Twitter to extend Diwali wishes. He said Happy Diwali on behalf of him and his wife and prayed for hope happiness and prosperity.</p>

<p>"To the millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists celebrating the Festival of Lights,&nbsp;@DrBiden and I send our best wishes for a #HappyDiwali. May your new year be filled with hope, happiness, and prosperity. Sal Mubarak," said Biden.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To the millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists celebrating the Festival of Lights, <a href="https://twitter.com/DrBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrBiden</a> and I send our best wishes for a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyDiwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyDiwali</a>. May your new year be filled with hope, happiness, and prosperity. Sal Mubarak.</p>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1327649998092214273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Saturday (November 11), as Indians and people of Indian origin around the world celebrated Diwali, sitting US President Donald Trump too extended his Diwali wishes. His tweet came a few hours before Biden's</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/happy-diwali-wishes-donald-trump-and-other-world-leaders-343184">Happy Diwali, wishes Donald Trump and other world leaders</a></strong><br />
<br />
Trump posted a photo of him in what appears to be a room in the White House. In the photo, he can be seen lighting a Diya. He can be seen surrounded by members of Indian-American community.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/w9YruJ4AYc">pic.twitter.com/w9YruJ4AYc</a></p>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1327633598686572544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Diwali, the festival of lights, represents triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, happiness over sorrow and knowledge over ignorance.</p>


US President-elect Joe Biden took to Twitter to extend Diwali wishes. He said Happy Diwali on behalf of him and his wife and prayed for hope happiness and prosperity.

US President-elect Joe Biden took to Twitter to extend Diwali wishes. He said Happy Diwali on behalf of him and his wife and prayed for hope happiness and prosperity. "To the millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists celebrating the Festival of Lights, @DrBiden and I send our best wishes for a #HappyDiwali. May your new year be filled with hope, happiness, and prosperity. Sal Mubarak," said Biden. To the millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists celebrating the Festival of Lights, @DrBiden and I send our best wishes for a #HappyDiwali. May your new year be filled with hope, happiness, and prosperity. Sal Mubarak. — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) November 14, 2020 × On Saturday (November 11), as Indians and people of Indian origin around the world celebrated Diwali, sitting US President Donald Trump too extended his Diwali wishes. His tweet came a few hours before Biden's Also Read | Happy Diwali, wishes Donald Trump and other world leaders Trump posted a photo of him in what appears to be a room in the White House. In the photo, he can be seen lighting a Diya. He can be seen surrounded by members of Indian-American community. pic.twitter.com/w9YruJ4AYc — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 14, 2020 × Diwali, the festival of lights, represents triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, happiness over sorrow and knowledge over ignorance.

US President-elect Joe Biden says Happy Diwali, wishes for hope and prosperity

<p>Thousands of Indians in North India, especially the national capital region, woke up on Sunday to toxic air following Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.</p>

<p>Delhi was blanketed with a thick haze, with the average pollution level in the capital over 9 times what is considered safe by the World Health Organisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Revellers on Saturday night defied bans on using firecrackers to celebrate the festival -- imposed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.</p>

<p>The NCR's air pollution typically worsens in October and November due to farmers burning agricultural waste -- known as stubble burning -- in adjoining states, along with coal-fired power plants in surrounding states, traffic fumes and windless days.</p>

<p>The air quality had turned "severe" on Saturday evening with stubble burning accounting for 32 per cent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution, but firecracker emissions and calm winds made the situation even worse.</p>

<p>The raging coronavirus epidemic, with more than 400,000 confirmed cases in the city of 20 million, has also heightened alarm over the health hazard posed by the choking smog, with doctors warning of a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses.</p>

<p>An average of air quality indices measured at different places within the major cities in these states was higher than last year, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board.</p>

<p>The levels of PM2.5 -- which is about three per cent the diameter of a human hair and can lead to premature deaths from heart and lung diseases -- were 396 microgram per cubic metre ( g/m3) in Delhi-NCR at 6 am, above the emergency threshold of 300 &nbsp;g/m3. The safe limit is 60 g/m3.</p>

<p>PM10 level stood at 543 g/m3 at 6 am, above the emergency threshold of 500 &nbsp;g/m3, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. PM10 levels below 100 &nbsp;g/m3 are considered safe in India.</p>

<p>Delhi Police arrested 10 people and seized 638 kg of firecrackers on Saturday.</p>

<p>The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had on Monday imposed a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR) from November 9 midnight to November 30 midnight, saying "celebration by crackers is for happiness and not to celebrate deaths and diseases".</p>

<p>According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, the PM2.5 concentration in Delhi on Diwali could have been the &nbsp;lowest &nbsp;in the last four years if there were no fireworks.</p>

<p>The city recorded an overall AQI of 414 at 4 pm on Saturday. It soared to 454 by 10 pm. On Sunday, it stood at 465 at 9 am.</p>

<p>Cities in the states of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar and New Delhi - which have already been suffering from some of the worst air in the world - saw even higher levels of pollution than on the morning after Diwali last year.</p>

<p>The neighbouring cities of Faridabad (438), Ghaziabad (483), Greater Noida (439), Gurgaon (424) and Noida (466) also recorded their AQI in the severe category.</p>

<p>Delhi recorded a 24-hour average AQI of 337 on Diwali last year (October 27), and 368 and 400 in the next two days. Thereafter, pollution levels remained in the &nbsp;severe &nbsp;category for three days on the trot.</p>

<p>In 2018, the 24-hour average AQI (281) on Diwali was recorded in the poor category. It deteriorated to 390 the next day and remained in the &nbsp;severe &nbsp;category on three consecutive days thereafter.</p>

<p>In 2017, Delhi's 24-hour average AQI on Diwali (October 19) stood at 319. It, however, slipped into the severe zone the next day.</p>

<p>This time, the India Meteorological Department has said that a fresh western disturbance is likely to increase the wind speed and improve the air quality in Delhi-NCR post Diwali (Sunday and Monday).</p>

<p>Light rain is likely on Sunday under the influence of a western disturbance. The air quality is likely to improve due to an expected increase in the wind speed, Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the IMD's regional forecasting centre, said.</p>

<p>The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi also said the situation is likely to &nbsp;improve significantly &nbsp;on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under the influence of a Western Disturbance, isolated rainfall over plains of northwest India and adjoining central India is likely on Sunday. Generally cloudy sky, light rain, thundershowers accompanied with gusty winds (speed 30-40 kmph) is likely towards afternoon-evening on Sunday, the central agency said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Thousands of Indians in North India, especially the national capital region, woke up on Sunday to toxic air following Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Delhi was blanketed with a thick haze, with the average pollution level in the capital over 9 times what is considered safe by the World Health Organisation.

Thousands of Indians in North India, especially the national capital region, woke up on Sunday to toxic air following Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Delhi was blanketed with a thick haze, with the average pollution level in the capital over 9 times what is considered safe by the World Health Organisation. Revellers on Saturday night defied bans on using firecrackers to celebrate the festival -- imposed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The NCR's air pollution typically worsens in October and November due to farmers burning agricultural waste -- known as stubble burning -- in adjoining states, along with coal-fired power plants in surrounding states, traffic fumes and windless days. The air quality had turned "severe" on Saturday evening with stubble burning accounting for 32 per cent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution, but firecracker emissions and calm winds made the situation even worse. The raging coronavirus epidemic, with more than 400,000 confirmed cases in the city of 20 million, has also heightened alarm over the health hazard posed by the choking smog, with doctors warning of a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses. An average of air quality indices measured at different places within the major cities in these states was higher than last year, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. The levels of PM2.5 -- which is about three per cent the diameter of a human hair and can lead to premature deaths from heart and lung diseases -- were 396 microgram per cubic metre ( g/m3) in Delhi-NCR at 6 am, above the emergency threshold of 300 g/m3. The safe limit is 60 g/m3. PM10 level stood at 543 g/m3 at 6 am, above the emergency threshold of 500 g/m3, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. PM10 levels below 100 g/m3 are considered safe in India. Delhi Police arrested 10 people and seized 638 kg of firecrackers on Saturday. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had on Monday imposed a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR) from November 9 midnight to November 30 midnight, saying "celebration by crackers is for happiness and not to celebrate deaths and diseases". According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, the PM2.5 concentration in Delhi on Diwali could have been the lowest in the last four years if there were no fireworks. The city recorded an overall AQI of 414 at 4 pm on Saturday. It soared to 454 by 10 pm. On Sunday, it stood at 465 at 9 am. Cities in the states of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar and New Delhi - which have already been suffering from some of the worst air in the world - saw even higher levels of pollution than on the morning after Diwali last year. The neighbouring cities of Faridabad (438), Ghaziabad (483), Greater Noida (439), Gurgaon (424) and Noida (466) also recorded their AQI in the severe category. Delhi recorded a 24-hour average AQI of 337 on Diwali last year (October 27), and 368 and 400 in the next two days. Thereafter, pollution levels remained in the severe category for three days on the trot. In 2018, the 24-hour average AQI (281) on Diwali was recorded in the poor category. It deteriorated to 390 the next day and remained in the severe category on three consecutive days thereafter. In 2017, Delhi's 24-hour average AQI on Diwali (October 19) stood at 319. It, however, slipped into the severe zone the next day. This time, the India Meteorological Department has said that a fresh western disturbance is likely to increase the wind speed and improve the air quality in Delhi-NCR post Diwali (Sunday and Monday). Light rain is likely on Sunday under the influence of a western disturbance. The air quality is likely to improve due to an expected increase in the wind speed, Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the IMD's regional forecasting centre, said. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi also said the situation is likely to improve significantly on Sunday. Under the influence of a Western Disturbance, isolated rainfall over plains of northwest India and adjoining central India is likely on Sunday. Generally cloudy sky, light rain, thundershowers accompanied with gusty winds (speed 30-40 kmph) is likely towards afternoon-evening on Sunday, the central agency said.

Delhi, neighbouring cities choke on toxic smog day after Diwali festivities

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Longewala post at Rajasthan border on Saturday morning to celebrate Diwali with soldiers.

PM Modi salutes Armed forces on the occasion of Diwali

<p>Just like pretty much everything this year, Diwali, one of the most important festivals in India, commenced on a muted note -- with the main festivities due to take place on Saturday, November 14.</p>

<p>Each year, Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world celebrate Diwali. The festival symbolises the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, and new beginnings in the modern world.</p>

<p>Festivities usually lasts for five days -- the highlight being spectacular fireworks.</p>

<p>This part of the festival acknowledges Lord Rama's return to his kingdom after 14 years in exile.</p>

<p>Hinduism believes that during Diwali, the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, would visit their homes if they are illuminated. This is where Lakshmi Puja also comes into prominence.</p>

<p>But 2020 is the year of Covid-19, and every celebration is marred by the novel coronavirus. The Diwali celebrations are further hampered due to the alarmingly poor quality of air in the national capital region owing to stubble burning in the adjoining states.</p>

<p><strong>IN INDIA</strong></p>

<p>Amid this, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to continue the tradition of celebrating this festival of lights at the Longewala post on Rajasthan border with soldiers. He has been doing this since 2014, the year he first became came to power.</p>

<p>Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, Army Chief General MM Naravane and Border Security Force (BSF) DG Rakesh Asthana have also accompaned the prime minister.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Modi tweeted to wish the nation.</p>

<p>“Wishing everyone a Happy Diwali! May this festival further brightness and happiness. May everyone be prosperous and healthy,” he posted on Twitter.</p>

<p>On Friday, Modi urged every citizen to light a diya as a as a salute to soldiers who “fearlessly protect our nation”.</p>

<p>“This Diwali, let us also light a Diya as a #Salute2Soldiers who fearlessly protect our nation. Words can’t do justice to the sense of gratitude we have for our soldiers for their exemplary courage. We are also grateful to the families of those on the borders,” he tweeted.</p>

<p>"On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all the fellow citizens living in India and abroad. May this grand festival of happiness and light bring delight, peace and prosperity to each and every house of our country," Indian President Ram Nath Kovind said in a series of tweets.</p>

<p>"The festival inspires us to work for the service of humanity. Let us, on this occasion, resolve to become a lamp of hope and prosperity for the poor, destitute and needy people of the society by sharing our happiness just as a lamp lightens many lamps by sharing its light," he said.</p>

<p>"Diwali is also a festival of cleanliness, so let us honor mother-nature by celebrating pollution-free, environment friendly and clean Diwali," he added.</p>

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to Twitter and said, "May this holy festival of Diwali bring prosperity and happiness and good health in the lives of people. Best wishes on the festival of light."</p>

<p>"Wishing you all a Happy Diwali," Indian National Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tweeted.</p>

<p><strong>ACROSS THE WORLD</strong></p>

<p>On the occasion of Diwali, the iconic New York city destination Empire State Building was lit up in orange.</p>

<p>The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, the leading umbrella diaspora organisation in the US, partnering with the Empire State Building, marked the festival of lights by illuminating the iconic Manhattan building in orange Friday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a> from NYC!<br />
<br />
We’re joining <a href="https://twitter.com/FIANYNJCTorg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FIANYNJCTorg</a> in celebrating the festival of lights by turning our own lights all orange tonight! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ESBright?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ESBright</a><br />
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📷: filipspinka/IG <a href="https://t.co/6QKyZlNHsF">pic.twitter.com/6QKyZlNHsF</a></p>
— Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmpireStateBldg/status/1327351440034181120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>FIA said it also served 10,000 hot meals in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut under the initiative 'Diwali Soup &amp; Kitchen', aimed at taking Indian tradition, culture and customs related to the festival to a diverse audience.</p>

<p>UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Prince Charles used the analogy of victory of light over darkness as reflective of overcoming the coronavirus pandemic crisis as part of their annual messages to mark the festival.</p>

<p>"This year, perhaps more than any other, Diwali holds a potent meaning for all of us; because just as surely as Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana and brought his wife Sita home, and just as Diwali celebrates the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, so too -- I have every confidence -- that we shall triumph over COVID-19," Johnson said.</p>

<p>He reiterated the "mantra" for a year when Diwali is being marked in a locked down setting across the UK for people to wash hands, wear a face covering, and keep their distance from anyone not part of the household.</p>

<p>Prince Charles released a Diwali message video through his South Asian diaspora-led charity British Asian Trust and pointed out how the festival this year coincides with his own 72nd birthday.</p>

<p>"The Festival of Lights is, I know, a special time for families and friends to come together to share gifts and sweets and to enjoy each other's companies. Very sadly this year, the ongoing public health crisis means that this will simply not be possible for so many of you and I can so well imagine how difficult and disappointing this must be," said the heir to the British throne.</p>

<p><em><strong>(with inputs)</strong></em></p>


Just like pretty much everything this year, Diwali, one of the most important festivals in India, commenced on a muted note -- with the main festivities due to take place on Saturday, November 14.

Just like pretty much everything this year, Diwali, one of the most important festivals in India, commenced on a muted note -- with the main festivities due to take place on Saturday, November 14. Each year, Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world celebrate Diwali. The festival symbolises the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, and new beginnings in the modern world. Festivities usually lasts for five days -- the highlight being spectacular fireworks. This part of the festival acknowledges Lord Rama's return to his kingdom after 14 years in exile. Hinduism believes that during Diwali, the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, would visit their homes if they are illuminated. This is where Lakshmi Puja also comes into prominence. But 2020 is the year of Covid-19, and every celebration is marred by the novel coronavirus. The Diwali celebrations are further hampered due to the alarmingly poor quality of air in the national capital region owing to stubble burning in the adjoining states. IN INDIA Amid this, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to continue the tradition of celebrating this festival of lights at the Longewala post on Rajasthan border with soldiers. He has been doing this since 2014, the year he first became came to power. Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, Army Chief General MM Naravane and Border Security Force (BSF) DG Rakesh Asthana have also accompaned the prime minister. Earlier in the day, Modi tweeted to wish the nation. “Wishing everyone a Happy Diwali! May this festival further brightness and happiness. May everyone be prosperous and healthy,” he posted on Twitter. On Friday, Modi urged every citizen to light a diya as a as a salute to soldiers who “fearlessly protect our nation”. “This Diwali, let us also light a Diya as a #Salute2Soldiers who fearlessly protect our nation. Words can’t do justice to the sense of gratitude we have for our soldiers for their exemplary courage. We are also grateful to the families of those on the borders,” he tweeted. "On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all the fellow citizens living in India and abroad. May this grand festival of happiness and light bring delight, peace and prosperity to each and every house of our country," Indian President Ram Nath Kovind said in a series of tweets. "The festival inspires us to work for the service of humanity. Let us, on this occasion, resolve to become a lamp of hope and prosperity for the poor, destitute and needy people of the society by sharing our happiness just as a lamp lightens many lamps by sharing its light," he said. "Diwali is also a festival of cleanliness, so let us honor mother-nature by celebrating pollution-free, environment friendly and clean Diwali," he added. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to Twitter and said, "May this holy festival of Diwali bring prosperity and happiness and good health in the lives of people. Best wishes on the festival of light." "Wishing you all a Happy Diwali," Indian National Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tweeted. ACROSS THE WORLD On the occasion of Diwali, the iconic New York city destination Empire State Building was lit up in orange. The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, the leading umbrella diaspora organisation in the US, partnering with the Empire State Building, marked the festival of lights by illuminating the iconic Manhattan building in orange Friday. Happy #Diwali from NYC! We’re joining @FIANYNJCTorg in celebrating the festival of lights by turning our own lights all orange tonight! #ESBright 📷: filipspinka/IG pic.twitter.com/6QKyZlNHsF — Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) November 13, 2020 × FIA said it also served 10,000 hot meals in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut under the initiative 'Diwali Soup & Kitchen', aimed at taking Indian tradition, culture and customs related to the festival to a diverse audience. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Prince Charles used the analogy of victory of light over darkness as reflective of overcoming the coronavirus pandemic crisis as part of their annual messages to mark the festival. "This year, perhaps more than any other, Diwali holds a potent meaning for all of us; because just as surely as Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana and brought his wife Sita home, and just as Diwali celebrates the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, so too -- I have every confidence -- that we shall triumph over COVID-19," Johnson said. He reiterated the "mantra" for a year when Diwali is being marked in a locked down setting across the UK for people to wash hands, wear a face covering, and keep their distance from anyone not part of the household. Prince Charles released a Diwali message video through his South Asian diaspora-led charity British Asian Trust and pointed out how the festival this year coincides with his own 72nd birthday. "The Festival of Lights is, I know, a special time for families and friends to come together to share gifts and sweets and to enjoy each other's companies. Very sadly this year, the ongoing public health crisis means that this will simply not be possible for so many of you and I can so well imagine how difficult and disappointing this must be," said the heir to the British throne. (with inputs)

Diwali 2020: India, along with the world, celebrates the festival of lights

<p>US President Donald Trump on Saturday wished Indians all around the world Happy Diwali with an image of himself lighting a Diya. He tweeted the image on Saturday evening as per Indian Standard time. 'Happy Diwali- President Donald J. Trump', read the words in the image.</p>

<p>In the image, Trump can be seen lighting a Diya inside what appears to be a room in the White House. He is surrounded by members of Indian-American community.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/w9YruJ4AYc">pic.twitter.com/w9YruJ4AYc</a></p>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1327633598686572544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>All eyes are on Trump and his administration as he approaches the last days of his presidency. He has been combative even after it was certain that Joe Biden had clinched the presidency.</p>

<p>On Saturday, UK PM Boris Johnson extended his Diwali wishes too. He expressed gratitude towards British Hindus, Sikhs and Jains who he said did everything to tackle coronavirus pandemic. Unlike Trump, Boris Johnson recorded a video message.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BandiChhorDivas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BandiChhorDivas</a>!<br />
<br />
I know that this year celebrations will be different, but I am filled with respect for the way British Hindus, Sikhs and Jains have gone out of their way to help others throughout this pandemic. <a href="https://t.co/YhqWpq3JQH">pic.twitter.com/YhqWpq3JQH</a></p>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1327538300098371584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Canadian PM Justin Trudeau was also forthcoming as he wished everyone a happy Diwali in a video message he posted on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Diwali! I know celebrations will look different this year, but the message at the heart of the day - that light, hope, and knowledge will always triumph over darkness, evil, and ignorance - remains the same, and it has never been more important. <a href="https://t.co/HBAydTSaiW">https://t.co/HBAydTSaiW</a> <a href="https://t.co/KrVU18DKLz">pic.twitter.com/KrVU18DKLz</a></p>
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1327616194774491140?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the crown prince of Dubai, tweeted on the ocassion of Diwali as well.</p>

<p>"On the occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights, we congratulate all those who celebrate around the world, and wish them continued prosperity and progress," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On the occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights, we congratulate all those who celebrate around the world, and wish them continued prosperity and progress.</p>
— محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedBinZayed/status/1327272487504277504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Prince Charles extended Diwali greetings as well. He recorded a video message wishing everyone a happy Diwali</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“This brings you all my warmest greetings on the occasion of Diwali and, for those of you marking a New Year, let me wish you a happy, peaceful and prosperous year ahead.”<br />
<br />
The Prince of Wales sends his best wishes to those celebrating the Festival of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a>. <a href="https://t.co/wMbOQ2xxHb">pic.twitter.com/wMbOQ2xxHb</a></p>
— The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall (@ClarenceHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClarenceHouse/status/1326933361332457474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President-elect Joe Biden wished everyone a happy Diwali on behalf of him and his wife.</p>

<p>"To the millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists celebrating the Festival of Lights, @DrBiden and I send our best wishes for a #HappyDiwali. May your new year be filled with hope, happiness, and prosperity. Sal Mubarak," he tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To the millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists celebrating the Festival of Lights, <a href="https://twitter.com/DrBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrBiden</a> and I send our best wishes for a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyDiwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyDiwali</a>. May your new year be filled with hope, happiness, and prosperity. Sal Mubarak.</p>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1327649998092214273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


US President Donald Trump on Saturday wished Indians all around the world Happy Diwali with an image of himself lighting a Diya. He tweeted the image on Saturday evening as per Indian Standard time.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday wished Indians all around the world Happy Diwali with an image of himself lighting a Diya. He tweeted the image on Saturday evening as per Indian Standard time. 'Happy Diwali- President Donald J. Trump', read the words in the image. In the image, Trump can be seen lighting a Diya inside what appears to be a room in the White House. He is surrounded by members of Indian-American community. pic.twitter.com/w9YruJ4AYc — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 14, 2020 × All eyes are on Trump and his administration as he approaches the last days of his presidency. He has been combative even after it was certain that Joe Biden had clinched the presidency. On Saturday, UK PM Boris Johnson extended his Diwali wishes too. He expressed gratitude towards British Hindus, Sikhs and Jains who he said did everything to tackle coronavirus pandemic. Unlike Trump, Boris Johnson recorded a video message. Happy #Diwali and #BandiChhorDivas! I know that this year celebrations will be different, but I am filled with respect for the way British Hindus, Sikhs and Jains have gone out of their way to help others throughout this pandemic. pic.twitter.com/YhqWpq3JQH — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) November 14, 2020 × Canadian PM Justin Trudeau was also forthcoming as he wished everyone a happy Diwali in a video message he posted on Twitter. Happy Diwali! I know celebrations will look different this year, but the message at the heart of the day - that light, hope, and knowledge will always triumph over darkness, evil, and ignorance - remains the same, and it has never been more important. https://t.co/HBAydTSaiW pic.twitter.com/KrVU18DKLz — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 14, 2020 × Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the crown prince of Dubai, tweeted on the ocassion of Diwali as well. "On the occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights, we congratulate all those who celebrate around the world, and wish them continued prosperity and progress," he said. On the occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights, we congratulate all those who celebrate around the world, and wish them continued prosperity and progress. — محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) November 13, 2020 × Prince Charles extended Diwali greetings as well. He recorded a video message wishing everyone a happy Diwali “This brings you all my warmest greetings on the occasion of Diwali and, for those of you marking a New Year, let me wish you a happy, peaceful and prosperous year ahead.” The Prince of Wales sends his best wishes to those celebrating the Festival of #Diwali. pic.twitter.com/wMbOQ2xxHb — The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall (@ClarenceHouse) November 12, 2020 × US President-elect Joe Biden wished everyone a happy Diwali on behalf of him and his wife. "To the millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists celebrating the Festival of Lights, @DrBiden and I send our best wishes for a #HappyDiwali. May your new year be filled with hope, happiness, and prosperity. Sal Mubarak," he tweeted. To the millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists celebrating the Festival of Lights, @DrBiden and I send our best wishes for a #HappyDiwali. May your new year be filled with hope, happiness, and prosperity. Sal Mubarak. — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) November 14, 2020 ×

Happy Diwali, wishes Donald Trump and other world leaders

The Indian festival of Diwali is being celebrated all around the world. The Taiwan govt also celebrated Deepavali at an event attended by foreign minister along with Indian representatives.

Taiwan FM & Indian representatives share stage at an Diwali event

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