The injured who suffered mainly burn injuries include men, women and children. They were brought to Capital hospital for treatment.
A special team of the hospital, formed to deal with burn injuries during Diwali, was pressed into action after patients began to flow on Sunday evening.
Fire Incident in Sambalpur
A Diwali rocket caused a huge fire at an apartment in Sambalpur on Sunday night. As per reports, fire broke out at the third floor of Shyama Vatika apartment in Sambalpur’s Khetrajpur area after a stray Diwali rocket ended up inside the apartment.
Fortunately, the flat was empty during the fire, so there were no injuries in the mishap. However, a small waste dumped near the apartment caught fire and was reduced to ashes.
Fire Mishap in Nuapada
In another incident, a house at Santoshimandirpada in Sinapali, Nuapada was reduced to ashes after a huge fire engulfed the house following fire cracker explosion during Diwali.
Sources said, the owner of the house, Zamir Khan had huge amount of cotton stocked in his house, which aggravated the fire even more. He is a businessman and deals in mattresses.
Upon being informed, fire department personnel rushed to the spot and put out the fire. However, by then, the house had nothing left in it as almost everything was charred in the mishap.
“We were at the shop as usual. My children were at home and playing with fire crackers when the mishap took place. By the time we reached home, almost everything was charred in the fire. I have nothing left in my house,” said Zamir Khan.
Firecracker Mishap in Jajpur
Similarly, four persons including a woman and two children sustained burn injuries during Diwali celebrations in Sadakpur and Byasanagar areas of Jajpur district on Sunday evening. All the injured were admitted to Jajpur Road medical for treatment.
Two houses in the tribal slum near Dala overbridge under Byasanagar municipality caught fire in similar kind of firecracker mishap on Sunday evening. Fire department trucks reached the spot and doused the flames.
Ram Charan hosted all the stars and pictures from the Diwali party are worth dying for. Inside pictures show the stars having a gala time at the party and enjoying it to the fullest.
Known for being shy and staying away from parties, the rare get-together of Mahesh Babu, Jr. NTR, Allu Arjun and Ram Charan has left fans in awe of their simplicity.
Mahesh Babu’s wife and former actress Namrata shared a few pictures from the party and it is worth a million dollars.
One picture shows the Tollywood superstars dressed in their best looks for Diwali while another picture shows the better halves of the stars posing for a picture.
The picture has Ram Charan’s wife Upasana Konidela, Allu Arjun’s wife Sneha Reddy, Jr. NTR’s wife Lakshmi Pranathi, and Mahesh Babu’s wife Namrata.
Sharing the pictures, Namrata wrote, “About last night...Diwali done right with the coolest bunch!! Thanks @alwaysramcharan & @upasanakaminenikonidela for being the best hosts! ♥️”
“Happy Diwali folks!! Wishing you all a phenomenal one filled with love and light. 🪔✨ #DiwaliNights #Diwali2023.”
The last time all the stars had got together was for actor Varun Tej’s marriage to Lavanya Tripathi in Italy. The couple married as per Hindu rituals at Borgo San Felice in Tuscany, Italy.
Six years ago, a cracker explosion claimed the lives of Pradhan’s three sons and two granddaughters, apart from six other lives in the village.
On every Diwali, the Pradhan couple silently sheds tears for their departed sons and granddaughters. The horrific scene of the cracker explosion flashes across their minds. The couple still remembers the tragedy that struck on October 18, 2018, at their house when crackers exploded. Six customers were then buying crackers in the presence of his two sons and two granddaughters. They all died due to a massive explosion.
However, the couple managed to escape with burn injuries. Fortunately, their daughters-in-law were at their parents' house.
ALSO READ: From Flats To Car, 4 Extravagant Diwali Gifts That Awed The Employees
The burn scars are still visible all over Pradhan’s body which reminds him of the horrific tragedy.
“Now, we two are left to survive in the house and remember the past tragedy that turned our life topsy-turvy,” lamented Pradhan with tears welled up in his eyes.
Jagannath Patra, a local, said that they had never expected such a tragedy will happen in the village. “On this day, when we look back at the tragedy, we forget about the celebrations of Diwali,” he observed.
As per the Hindu tradition, ancestors descend on the earth during ‘pitrupakhya’ and return to their heavenly abode on Diwali day amid the flashing of lights.
Devotees in large numbers were seen lighting the ‘kaunria kathis’ (jute sticks) on the Bada Danda (The Grand Road). By doing that, they invoked ‘bada badua’ (ancestors) and bade farewell to them. They chanted, “Bada badua ho, andharare asha aluare jao” (O our revered forefathers! Descend on the earth in darkness and we bid you farewell on this festival of lights).
Usually, people solemnize the ‘bada badua’ ritual and light the jute sticks in their homes in the evening. It is believed that ‘paya shraddha’, is offered to ancestors seeking their blessings.
ALSO READ: Diwali 2023: Here Are Some Lesser-Known Facts About The Festival Of Lights
A devotee at Puri Srimandir said, "We feel elated as we had a very pleasing darshan of Mahaprabhu and paid ‘Paya Shraddha’."
Another devotee said, "We lit the kaunria sticks to show lights to our ancestors to ascend to their heavenly abode, while paya shradha was offered to them to get their blessings for a peaceful and prosperous life for future generations."
With Diwali festivities underway, and there being the possibility of crime, the Cuttack-Bhubaneswar Commissionerate Police has already braced itself up to face any eventuality.
Bhubaneswar DCP Prateek Singh on Sunday informed that tonight policemen in plain clothes will be moving on the roads of the capital city. Besides, PCR vans and policemen will be patrolling the lanes and by-lanes. There will be blockings across the city.
Also Read: No firecrackers in Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Twin City after 10 pm on Diwali
A special team under the leadership of additional DCP has been formed to keep a watch on the drunkards and on those bursting noise-polluting crackers. People found creating ruckus under the influence of alcohol will be picked up. Similarly, anyone found bursting high-decibel crackers won’t be spared. Since the possibility of fire mishaps can’t be ruled out, the police have had a discussion with the staff of the Fire Services department and hospitals regarding their preparedness.
The DCP also wished a safe and happy Diwali to the city denizens.
Dressed in traditional outfits, both Keshav and his wife Lerisha complement each other as they pose for a picture. While Keshav is dressed in a pink sherwani, Lerisha looks stunning in a pink lehenga. Both of them are sitting on the staircase of a house as they pose for a picture.
Though he was born in SA, Keshav is Indian-origin and has never forgotten his Indian roots, traditions and culture. He does not shy away from performing ancient Hindu rituals and offers prayers at temples and conducts puja at his home. He is best described as a family man with strong religious beliefs, actively supporting charity works and indigent children.
Happy Diwali 🪔❤️ pic.twitter.com/6iuiwJnXrs
— Keshav Maharaj (@imKeshavMaharaj) November 12, 2023
Currently participating in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023, Maharaj is a pivotal member of the South African team, which has successfully qualified for the semi-finals. He played a huge role and ensured SA’s win hitting the winning four runs in a tense match against Pakistan in Chennai on October 27.
Now, South Africa is likely to clash with Australia in the semi-finals to qualify for the Finals.
Indians fans were in awe of their skills and fully supported them on the ground. Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan was so impressed with the team that he would dance with them every time they won a match. He even invited the whole team for lunch at his residence.
While the Afghani team won hearts with their performance on the field, batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been winning hearts off the field as well.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz silently gave money to the needy people on the streets of Ahmedabad so they could celebrate Diwali.
— Dr. Sheetal yadav (@Sheetal96184712) November 12, 2023
- A beautiful gesture by Gurbaz
It would be good if an Indian cricketer also did this. pic.twitter.com/RiDHFLgaje
Recently, a video has been going viral on social media that shows Gurbaz silently giving money to the needy and homeless people sleeping on the streets of Ahmedabad. The star batsman can be seen putting Rs 500 notes each near the people who are sleeping on the street at night.
He arrives in a car and silently puts the currency notes near the people while they are asleep so that they can celebrate their Diwali. This noble gesture of the Afghani batsman has been winning hearts online with cricket lovers applauding him online.
“Gurbaz is doing it without any PR or camera around on the eve of Diwali is the most touching thing you will ever see. This is why these Afghans are loved so much in India,” a fan commented.
Another fan wrote, “This is such a beautiful gesture by Gurbaz that too at night 3AM. It would have been even great if an Indian cricketer also did this.”
“He is making sure that everyone celebrates Diwali before he leaves for Afghanistan,” shared another fan.
PM Modi shared his pictures with the soldiers on X, "Reached Lepcha in Himachal Pradesh to celebrate Diwali with our brave security forces."
Dressed in olive green, the Prime Minister interacted with soldiers.
Since 2014, PM Modi has been following his tradition of celebrating Diwali with soldiers.
He last celebrated Diwali with soldiers in Himachal Pradesh on October 30, 2016.
Lepcha falls in Lahaul-Spiti district, spread over 13,835 sq km. The climatic conditions in the entire district are harsh as much of the land falls under a cold desert where the mercury drops below minus 20 degrees Celsius during winter.
After assuming the post of Prime Minister, PM Modi has been celebrating the festival of Diwali with the soldiers either on the International Border, or the Line of Actual Control or Line of Control.
In 2014, PM Modi celebrated Diwali with the soldiers at Siachen Glacier, in 2015 he spent time with soldiers at Amritsar border; in 2016 he celebrated Diwali in Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh and in 2017, he went to Gurez in Jammu and Kashmir.
In 2018, the Prime Minister celebrated Diwali with the Army personnel in Kedarnath in Uttarakhand while in 2019 he went to Rajouri in Jammu, in 2020 he celebrated Diwali in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer; in 2021 he celebrated Diwali in J&K's Nowshera and last year he spent time with Indian Army soldiers in Kargil during Diwali.
As per the Hindu calendar, Diwali or Deepawali falls on the 15th day of the month of Kartik. People in the state pay tributes to their ancestors on Diwali and the popular ritual is known as ‘Paya Shradha’. As ‘Amabasya Tithi’ is continuing for two days starting today this year, people are in confusion when to offer ‘Paya Shradha’ to the ancestors.
However, as per cultural experts, ‘Paya Shradha’ could be offered, and ‘diyas’ could be lightened after the afternoon as both ‘Chaturdashi’ and ‘Amabasya’ Tithis are continuing today. Moreover, as ‘Amabasya’ is falling on ‘Udayaparva’ tomorrow, Diwali and traditional ‘Sagara Bije’ rituals will be celebrated in Puri Srimandir on Monday.
The popular festival in Western India is mostly associated with business and trade where new ventures, the buying of properties, the opening of offices, and shops, and special occasions like marriages are considered auspicious.
A few days before Diwali, the markets were crowded with Diwali shoppers. Rangoli making and painting footprints to welcome Goddess Laxmi are also integral parts of Diwali celebrations.
Diwali’s history can be traced back to ancient India, with several legends associated with it many believe that Diwali is the celebration that marks Goddess Lakshmi’s wedding with Lord Vishnu while others mark it to be a celebration of Lakshmi’s birth, as it is believed that she was born on the new moon day of Kartik.
“Wishing everyone a Happy Diwali! May this special festival bring joy, prosperity, and wonderful health to everyone’s lives,” tweeted Modi.
Similarly, President Droupadi Murmu tweeted, “Great wishes to all on the auspicious occasion of Diwali."
दीपावली के शुभ अवसर पर सभी को मेरी हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं! pic.twitter.com/i2T8lPdKm9
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 12, 2023
“I wish hearty wishes to all the brothers and sisters of the State on the occasion of the festival of lights-Diwali. May the light of development enlighten the lives of all,” wrote Patnaik on social media platform X (earlier known as Twitter).
“I extend my hearty wishes to the people of the country on the auspicious occasion of the festival of lights-Diwali. May this grand festival bring knowledge, health abundance, and prosperity into everybody’s lives. Let Goddess Laxmi bless all,” tweeted Nadda.
BJP National Vice-President Baijayant Panda also extended his wishes on the occasion of the grand festival.
समस्त देशवासियों को प्रकाश का पावन महापर्व दीपावली की हार्दिक बधाई एवं शुभकामनाएं। यह महापर्व आप सभी के जीवन में सुख, शांति और समृद्धि लाये और सभी का जीवन आलोकित हो, ऐसी भगवान से प्रार्थना है 🙏🙏#शुभ_दीपावली pic.twitter.com/43NTT9WkKH
— Baijayant Jay Panda (@PandaJay) November 12, 2023
“Good wishes to all the people of the country on the auspicious occasion of the grand festival of Diwali. May this grand festival fill everybody’s lives with happiness, peace, and prosperity,” tweeted Panda.
The special trains would make space for at least 26 lakh berths for the convenience of passengers, the Railway Ministry source said.
A massive rush is witnessed during Diwali and Chhath Puja in north India.
(Except for the headline, this story, from a syndicated feed, has not been edited by Odishatv.in staff)
Police Commissioner Saumendra Priyadarshi on Friday said that denizens of the Twin City will be allowed to burst permissible varieties of crackers only up to 10 pm on the day of the grand festival.
As per Priyadarshi, action will be taken against the persons bursting crackers with noise levels of more than 125 decibels. Moreover, he appealed to denizens to use green crackers to keep the environment free from pollution.
The Police Commissioner further informed that a special team has been formed to curb the bursting of illegal firecrackers in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.
“As per the guidelines, denizens can burst firecrackers up to 10 pm on Diwali. They can’t create noise by bursting crackers beyond the time limit. I request all the people of the Twin City to celebrate Green Diwali by using green crackers. Please help the administration to control air and noise pollution,” said Priyadarshi.
However, denizens and firecracker vendors are still confused about the guidelines issued by the Commissionerate Police on Diwali and the use of green crackers.
“There is not much demand for sound-producing firecrackers. People are mostly buying fancy firecrackers. We were not sure about the licenses to obtain from the administration for selling firecrackers this year. However, we got permission at the last moment. We are hopeful of good business,” said a firecracker vendor.
This observation was made by the Top Court while responding to a plea over high pollution levels in Udaipur, falling air quality index and lack of regulations to demarcate noise pollution levels.
“Saying that no fresh directions are needed, the Court directed the state of Rajasthan to take specific note of the previous orders and reiterated that its orders are binding on all states in the country,” a Live Law report said.
A bench of Justice A S Bopanna and Justice M M Sundresh today said in its order that, “No specific order will be necessary in as much as this Court in the course of hearing the petitions has passed several orders, where steps have been indicated to minimise and avoid air as well as noise pollution Hence the said orders will bind every state in the country, including the state of Rajasthan. Therefore, we make it clear that the state of Rajasthan would also take note of this and take all steps to minimize air and noise pollution, not only during the festival season, but even thereafter,” the report added.
One should eat wisely to kindle the digestion and encourage tissue development:
Consume boiled water as per individual requirement. Coriander seeds or Cumin seeds can also be used to flavor the water.
Consume sweets in the early part of the meal (to balance the Vata), to be followed by sour and salt items (to stimulate proper Pitta), backed up by foods with pungent, bitter and astringent tastes (to subdue Kapha).
Overdoing anything is never any good, so maintain a balance in food proportions eating heavy foods in less quantity and light foods in more quantity with suitable appetizers in between to balance the two.
Grain: Wheat, Rice and Barley – Rice should be of the white variety as brown rice, etc is not suitableBarley: Items made up of barley (dosa, soup etc) are very useful for individuals having diabetic or sugar issues.
Lentils: Green gram is ideal. Tuvardal can be used sparingly. One must cut down on Channa, Rajma, Urad, etc.
Suggested vegetables: Parwal / Pointed gourd, Bottle gourd, Bitter gourd and Ash gourd – all of which are strongly recommended to be included in your diet as they are sweet and light on your digestive system.
One can have small amount of Bitters like Bitter gourd, Methi, etc. Avoid raw foods.Vegetables like Yam (suran), Young radish can be had. Carrot, beetroot - in moderate quantities.Heavy to digest vegetables like Potatoes should be cut down.
Gas producing vegetables like Broccoli, Cauliflower& Cabbage should be reduced – and should be cooked well with ghee.
Avoid non-veg.
After a meal chew a small piece of ginger with rock salt which helps to avoid acid reflux.Ensure that one has well cooked but light foods.
Drink Buttermilk flavoured and made with crushed ginger, cumin and rock salt – it will improve the gut health.
(Dr. Subash Markande, SwaSwara)
The Diwali Day Act, if passed by Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden would make the festival of lights the 12th federally recognised holiday in the United States.
"Diwali is one of the most important days of the year for billions of people across the globe, and for countless families and communities in Queens, New York, and the United States," Congresswoman Grace Meng told reporters during a virtual news conference here soon after introducing the bill in the House of Representatives on Friday.
Establishing a federal holiday for Diwali would allow families and friends to celebrate together, and demonstrate that the government values the diverse cultural makeup of the nation, Meng, a Democrat, said.
"Diwali celebrations are a wonderful time here in Queens, and each year it is easy to see just how important this day is to so many people. America's strength is derived from the diverse experiences, cultures and communities that make up this nation," she said.
"My Diwali Day Act is one step toward educating all Americans on the importance of this day and celebrating the full face of American diversity. I look forward to shepherding this bill through Congress," Meng said. Welcoming the move, New York Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar said, "This year, we saw our entire state speak with one voice in support of recognising Diwali and the South Asian community."
"My extraordinary partner in government Congresswoman Meng is now taking the movement national with her historic legislation to make Diwali a federal holiday. Together, we are showing that Diwali is an American holiday. To the over 4 million Americans who celebrate Diwali, your government sees you and hears you," she said.
Applauding Meng for her continued work to increase the visibility of the Asian-American community, New York State Senator Jeremy Cooney said naming Diwali a federal holiday not only honours those who observe but highlights a cultural tradition some Americans do not experience regularly.
"Diwali is a special holiday for so many South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities," said New York City Councilman Shekar Krishnan.
"As the first Indian American ever elected to NYC government, I am so proud to support Congresswoman Meng's legislation to establish 'Deepavali' as a federal holiday. It is crucial that children like my own are able to officially celebrate our holidays with their families in a way that I was not able to grow up," he said.
A large number of community members applauded the introduction of the Diwali Day Act in the House of Representatives.
"The recognition of Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas is pivotal to enriching the cultural fabric of the United States and fostering greater understanding and appreciation for the rich South Asian diaspora," said Sim J Singh Attariwala, Senior Policy and Advocacy Manager of The Sikh Coalition.
"Today is a milestone that demonstrates our visibility, our contributions, and the progress we are making in the United States with the Diwali Day Act," said Richard David, Board Member at the Indo-Caribbean Alliance. Congratulation Congresswoman Meng, Coalition of Hindus of North America president Nikunj Trivedi said.
This joyous festival is celebrated by millions of Americans and symbolises the victory of good over evil and of light over darkness and brings together people from all backgrounds to cherish goodness, well-being, peace and prosperity - things that everyone can value and benefit from, Trivedi said.
"As Hindu Americans, we are so glad to see a bill to honour the multitude of celebrations that take place across the Indian subcontinent, the Caribbean, and beyond on Diwali," said Ria Chakrabarty, Policy Director for Hindus for Human Rights.
"It is high time to recognise Diwali as a holiday in US public schools," said Dr. Neeta Jain, founder and president of the International Ahimsa Foundation.
"Our children should be treated equally. As our children celebrate other cultures, others should celebrate and learn about our culture as well. This is the only way we can teach children to have mutual respect, mutual understanding and mutual acceptance," she said.
"My Diwali Day Act is one step toward educating all Americans on the importance of this day, and celebrating the full face of American diversity," Meng said on Friday.
"Diwali is one of the most important days of the year for billions of people across the globe," she said
"America's strength is derived from the diverse experiences, cultures and communities that make up this nation."
Broadening its appeal, the text of the bill says: "Millions of Americans, both religious and secular, celebrate Diwali, which is also called the 'Festival of Lights'."
The bill has been sponsored by 14 members of the House -- 13 Democrats and a Republican -- and shows wide wide support.
The sponsors even include Ilhan Omar and Pramila Jayapal, who are caustic critics of the Indian government and what they call "Hindutva".
If the Diwali Day Act is adopted by Congress, it would become the 12th federal holiday, and only the second religious holiday after Christmas.
The bill was introduced on May 15 and forwarded the same day to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, which will have to approve it for it to go before the House.
It will also have to be approved by the Senate before going to the president for the final stage of adoption as law.
"Establishing a federal holiday for Diwali, and the day off it would provide, would allow families and friends to celebrate together, and demonstrate that the government values the diverse cultural makeup of the nation," Meng's office said.
The announcement was made as May, the Asian American Pacific Islander Month was drawing to a close, with the endorsement of several Hindu, Sikh, Dalit Rights, Indo-Caribbean and pan-Asian community and professional organisations.
"The recognition of Diwali as a federal holiday would be an affirmative step in celebrating/recognizing the diversity of our nation," said John C. Yang, President of Asian Americans Advancing Justice.
Together with Meng "we are showing that Diwali is an American holidaya, said Jennifer Rajkumar, a member of the New York State Assembly.
"To the over 4 million Americans who celebrate Diwali, your government sees you and hears you," she said.
After a campaign by her and Meng, New York City has made Diwali a school holiday from this year.
Meng represents a constituency in New York with a large Asian population.
Gregg Orton, Executive Director of the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans, welcomed the introduction of Meng's legislation.
He said: "The official recognition of Diwali allows for the acknowledgement and celebration of individuals in the Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist faiths. Our communities deserve to be seen and celebrated, and the passage of this act empowers several South Asian and Southeast Asian communities in practising and embracing their religious heritage."
Sim J Singh Attariwala, a senior official of The Sikh Coalition, said: "By embracing these celebrations, we not only include and integrate communities but also strengthen the bonds of our multicultural society, making America a more vibrant and compassionate nation for all."
A significant acknowledgement of Diwali was made by the US Postal Service which introduced a Diwali stamp with the image of a diya or lamp in 2016.
According to the draft, the bill will have the House acknowledge that "Diwali signifies the victory of good over evil and unfairness, and knowledge over ignorance".
"Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is an auspicious day celebrated by many South and Southeast Asian communities as well as religious groups including the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and Jain communities."
The bill specifies that Diwali floats according to the "Vedic lunar calendar". Observed on falls on the 15th day of the eighth month or the New Moon Day in the month of Kartika".
Juneteenth commemorating the end of slavery was the last federal holiday adopted after approval by Congress and being signed into law by President Biden in 2021.
Diwali coincides with the Bandi Chhor Divas (the Day of Liberation), Kali Puja, and Tihar, it says.
While the incident occurred during Diwali, the matter came to the fore after a few members of the International Human Rights Commission lodged a complaint in this connection with the Capital Police.
Remnants of the crackers were still found tied to the carcass. The canine had suffered severe burn injuries due to the inhumane act.
Animal lovers have condemned the incident and demanded exemplary punishment against the culprits. Demanding stringent action, members of IHRC have lodged a written complaint. Similarly, Chief District Veterinary Officer (CDVO) also lodged a complaint in this connection with Kharavel Nagar police.
Police have started a probe into the incident, said Ranendra Pratap Swain, Minister of Fisheries and Animal Resource Development of Odisha.
“A normal person would never do such a heinous act. If some sane person has done this, then they are no less than any terrorists. Even a terrorist wouldn’t do such an act to an animal that cannot speak. Every human being has the right to live, dogs also have the right to live. They tied both the legs of the dog and tied the bomb crackers in its neck that exploded and killed the dog,” said the complainant.
Similarly, another complainant alleged, “They tied crackers to its tail first. When it ran away, they once again lured it by giving food and tied the crackers to its neck. Eventually, it died a painful death. We had called the local residents and asked them. But, before the arrival of any photos and videos, the BMC has taken away the carcass.”
“But, whosoever has done it under the influence of alcohol or a normally for fun, they should know about the importance of the life of a living being. People have forgotten all virtues of kindness and forgiveness," he rued.
Priyanka took to her Instagram to share the pictures of her Diwali celebrations. She wrote in the caption: "Love, peace and prosperity to all. From a heart truly laden with gratitude, I wish you all a Happy Diwali. Sorry I'm a little late but decided to stay in the moment just a little bit longer. Om Namah Shivay. From ours to yours. Love and light. PS: missed u @siddharthchopra89"
In the pictures, the star couple can be seen posing with daughter and Priyanka's mother, Madhu Chopra.
Priyanka and Nick welcomed their daughter via surrogacy this year. Announcing the arrival of their baby, the star couple shared a statement in January. The statement read: "We are overjoyed to confirm that we have welcomed a baby via surrogate. We respectfully ask for privacy during this special time as we focus on our family. Thank you so much."
Since then, the couple have been mindful of their daughter's pictures coming out on the Internet and have always concealed her face with the emojis.
As per reports, a group of social workers in Rairakhol’s Jadumani Patna conducted a dangerous stunt at Bhim Bhoi stadium. A 'Ball' was made from gunny bags and gunny thread. Later, kerosene and ghee is poured on the gunny ball to ignite the fire.
A huge number of residents of Rairakhol participated in the soccer game and the stadium was graced with a large number of spectators.
While the entire arrangement for the game was made by the group of social workers, skilled local workers prepared the ‘Ball of Fire’.
The event was held on Diwali evening. The show started after conducting a pooja of the ‘gunny ball’ at the center of the stadium. The competition was held between two groups and the participants joined either of the groups.
Suspecting mishaps in the dangerous fire event, the organisers arranged sand sacks, blankets, water, and medicines at the event venue. This special event is being organised for the last 40 years with beliefs and hopes of staying safe from fire.
“This event is being carried out for the last 40 years. This is being observed as a traditional event and everyone is welcomed here. There are certain rules set for the game. The ‘Ball of Fire’ remains mostly on the ground just like the soccer game. We made all the arrangements to ensure safety during the event,” said, Sushant Kumar Samanta, a local.
“This special game is associated with Rairakhol. Everyone is welcomed to this event and there is no special invitation made to participate in the game,” informed Prasant Sahoo, a participant.
While one person was allegedly murdered in Puri, another was killed in Nayagarh district on Diwali night yesterday. Besides, one person was injured.
In the first incident, unidentified miscreants opened fire at two persons when they were busy bursting crackers near Bhargabi School at Thentapur village under Chandanpur police limits in Puri. While one died on the spot, the other one is injured seriously.
The deceased has been identified as Shankar Behera while the injured was identified as Nilu Behera.
The initial investigation by the police reveals that past enmity is the reason behind the crime. Registering a case, the police have launched a probe and manhunt to nab the culprits.
In the second incident that occurred at Madhyakhand village under Dasapalla police limits in Nayagarh district, two groups had an altercation over bursting firecrackers. The scene turned ugly when one group attacked the other with sharp weapons, killing one.
The deceased has been identified as Bikash Behera, a history sheeter who had over 15 cases pending against him at various police stations in Nayagarh and other districts.
According to a source, Bikash along with his friends was bursting crackers when another group entered into a verbal duel with the former over bursting crackers. In no time, it snowballed into a pitched battle. Later, the opposite group attacked Bikash with a knife. Soaked in blood, he was rescued and rushed to Dasapalla Community Health Center (CHC) and then to Nayagarh district headquarters hospital (DHH). However, it was too late by then. The doctors at the DHH pronounced him received dead.
The police have launched a probe into the incident and a search for the miscreants.
(Reported by Madhusudan Mishra from Puri and Artatrana Pradhan from Nayagarh)
In the first incident, a man died while three others are battling for life with critical burn injuries following an explosion at a cracker shop in Badasuanlo village under Kamakhyanagar police limits in Dhenkanal district.
Among the injured were a minor boy and a girl. The incident occurred when the crackers caught fire that led to the explosion.
All the injured were rescued in a critical condition and rushed to the local hospital. After preliminary treatment, three were shifted to Cuttack-based SCB Medical College and Hospital for better treatment after their conditions worsened.
However, one of the injured succumbed to the burn injuries during treatment. The incident spread a pall of gloom in the village.
Meanwhile, a team of fire-fighters rushed to the village and doused the flames.
Similarly, a massive fire broke out at a cloth store in Nayasarak, Cuttack. Sources attributed the fire breakout to stray fire crackers as many youths were bursting crackers in the area.
On being informed, two team of fire personnel rushed to the spot. Efforts are on to extinguish the blaze.
On the other hand, as many as 50 platoons of police force and 300 senior police officers were deployed across Cuttack city to ensure law and order during Kalipuja and Diwali. A joint team of police and Odisha State Pollution Control Board went around the city to ensure strict adherence of directions.
People in the twin cities were directed to remain careful while bursting crackers in between 8 pm to 10 pm.
"It was my pleasure to receive Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji today. We exchanged Diwali greetings and shared our desire for peace, prosperity and a better tomorrow for the whole of humanity on this festival that marks the victory of light over darkness," President Murmu tweeted, along with the pictures of the meeting.
It was my pleasure to receive Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji today. We exchanged Diwali greetings and shared our desire for peace, prosperity and a better tomorrow for the whole of humanity on this festival that marks the victory of light over darkness. pic.twitter.com/qlkFdQ520I
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) October 24, 2022
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi celebrated Diwali with soldiers in Kargil.
"Today, on the occasion of Diwali, BSF and Pak Rangers exchanged sweets at various BOPs under Jammu Frontier in a very cordial atmosphere," the BSF said.
BSF Jammu offered the sweets to Pak Rangers and the Rangers also reciprocated.
The BSF said the exchange of sweets was done all along the BoPs in Samba, Kathua, RS Pura, and Akhnoor border.
"BSF has always been on the forefront in creating a peaceful and congenial atmosphere on the border while dominating the border effectively.
"Such gestures help build a peaceful atmosphere and cordial relationships on border between both border guarding forces," it said.
For the unversed, SRK has a rich history of hitting the threatres with blockbusters on the festival of lights. But, this year, there is no movie of the superstar to enthrall the audience.
SRK’s first Diwali release was Baazigar. The romantic action thriller film, directed by Abbas–Mustan, went on to become a blockbuster. Even SRK grabbed the Filmfare Award under the Best Actor category. Apart from his stellar performance, the movie is remembered for its melodious songs. Shilpa Shetty and Kajol also garnered appreciation for their roles in the movie.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge was another classic movie that released on Diwali in 1995. With DDLJ, filmmaker Yash Chopra introduced a new superstar to the B-Town. Aditya Chopra’s directorial debut paved SRK’s path for a glorious journey ahead. The romantic musical drama registered several milestones. Apart from clinching 10 Filmfare Awards, and a National Film Award, the soundtrack album became the most popular of the 1990s. This movie also brought a superstar pairing of SRK and Kajol, which still is loved by movie lovers.
Next, it was Dil To Pagal Hai in 1997 which starred Shah Rukh, Madhuri Dixit, and Karisma Kapoor. The love-triangle story went on to register a thumping success at the box office. After featuring twice opposite Madhuri Dixit, Dil To Pagal Hai was the third movie. Moreover, SRK shared the screen with Karisma for the first time. It went on to become the highest-grossing movie of the year apart from clinching three National Film Awards.
1998’s Kuch Kuch Hota Hai marked the debut of Karan Johar as a director. Movie lovers once again showered love for the romantic pairing of SRK and Kajol. Apart from the lead pairs, Rani Mukerji and Salman Khan’s extended roles in the movie garnered high appreciation. The movie emerged as a blockbuster and clinched several awards including the National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards, Screen Awards, Zee Cine Awards, and Bollywood Movie Awards.
Mohabbatein released in 2000 marked the glorious comeback of Millennium Star Amitabh Bachchan. The movie written and directed by Aditya Chopra, it marked the debut of Uday Chopra, Shamita Shetty, Jimmy Shergil, Kim Sharma, and Preeti Jhangiani. While the Aishwarya Rai and SRK starrer received widespread acclaim from critics. The movie went on to become a blockbuster with the highest-grossing movie of the year and Bollywood got its ‘Angry Old Man’.
Next, it was Veer Zaara in 2004 with which Yash Chopra brought SRK and Preity Zinta along with Rani Mukerji. The movie emerged as the highest-grossing flick of the year earning high appreciation for everything. Apart from the appreciation, the soundtrack of the movie created a frenzy across several generations. The flick clinched a National Award and four Filmfare Awards along with seven awards at IIFA.
SRK came up with Don in 2006 alongside Priyanka Chopra. Though the movie was a remake of Amitabh Bachchan’s Don, the movie became a commercially hit. SRK’s Don won the Best Asian Film at the Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival. The movie’s soundtrack was also highly appreciated.
The next year (2007), Shah Rukh’s Om Shanti Om introduced another diva Deepika Padukone. The film became a blockbuster and became the highest-grossing film ever at the time of its release. Deepika clinched a Filmfare Award under the Best Female Debut category and the movie was conferred with a National Film Awards under Best Production Design Category. Apart from that, the soundtrack became the highest-selling album of the year. Arjun Rampal also earned appreciation in his antagonist avatar.
Ra. One released in 2011 in which King of Romance was seen as a superhero. The movie was made at a whopping budget of Rs 150 crore, which was the most expensive Indian film at the time of its release. The film faced several controversies and even didn’t do well in India. However, the movie had a good collection overseas. The movie also starred Kareena Kapoor and Arjun Rampal.
The pages of history say that SRK and Diwali have a deep connection. Though moviemakers target different festive occasions with hopes of churning out good collections, SRK remains unbeaten in Diwali. However, following the pandemic situation, SRK has remained silent after his last release in 2018. Zero, also starring Anushka Sharma and Katrina Kaif, bombed at the box office. Though things have changed now, SRK is still missed on Diwali.
Even SRK’s upcoming movies in 2023 are not scheduled during or close to Diwali. Well, it is certainly quite disheartening for fans and movie lovers. It may also happen that one of the filmmakers of his upcoming films may reschedule at least one movie for 2023 Diwali.
For years, Bollywood films and storytellers have captured the essence of one of the biggest festivals of India with many of them being immortalised on screens forever.
As the world gets drenched in the colours and shimmer of Diwali, let's take a look at some of the most iconic sequences in Bollywood movies.
Chachi 420: Kamal Haasan's 1997 classic 'Chachi 420', which was inspired from 'Mrs Doubtfire' has one Diwali moment that served as a major driving force for the plot. The titular character of Chachi scores the job as a governess for his own daughter (played by a young Fatima Sana Shaikh) by rescuing her when an errant firecracker injures her.
Vaastav: Remember, "pacchass tola hai pacchass tola"? Yeah it's from the Sanjay Dutt-starrer 'Vaastav' in which he plays a gangster. The scene shows Sanjay Dutt's character Raghu coming out of his hide-out on the occasion of Diwali to meet his family and brings them gifts. In the scene with Reema Lagu, Raghu explains the value of his gold chain to his mother as he mouths the dialogue: "Ye dekh pacchass tola!"
Hum Aapke Hain Koun? 'Dikhtana' is one song you can't resist! The song arrives in the film during the Diwali when the news of Renuka Shahane's character's pregnancy is broken to the audience.
Mohabbatein: The 2000 release which starred Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan has aged as one of the most iconic films of Bollywood. While the film manages to hook the audience, its Diwali scene is remembered for the essence of standing up oneself.
The scene was set against the backdrop of major drama as all six leads in the film, who were previously terrified of confessing their feelings in front of Bachchan's character, ultimately do so as SRK emerges with the dhol singing the lines "Duniya mein kitni hai nafratein" with Udit Narayan's vocals going in perfect sync with SRK's on-screen persona.
Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham: Another one of the scenes that has been etched forever on the hearts of the audience. It's also the scene when Jaya Bachchan's character puts her spidey senses to good use as her son (Shah Rukh Khan) comes home from abroad on the occasion of Diwali.
Well, some might argue that the sound of helicopter blades can wake up even the dead from the grave but, then what's Bollywood without a little over the top drama? The scene shows a regular Diwali morning for the Raichand family, when Jaya's character ditches her cue in the musical, and walks towards the doorway as she senses SRK coming home.
B Town’s GenX actresses Ananya and Sara were spotted together while they were leaving the venue. Both Ananya and Sara looked drop-dead gorgeous in their sexy attires. While Ananya was wearing a red saree and a bralette, Sara had put on an ethnic dress.
Admirers are in awe of their stunning looks and have showered praises on both.
“Day by day ananya is looking hotttttt 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥”, another user appreciated Sara and said, “Sara always look amazing in her full dress, she is wearing mostly full dress,” one user said.
“Sara is looking so simple and decent,” said another user.
Meanwhile, another fan of Ananya said, “ananya is always hotttt 🔥🔥🔥🔥.”
In another video, Ananya accidentally met her ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh' co-star Bhumi Pednekar who came up to the stage while she was leaving. Both the B Town beauties shared the frame and posed for some pictures.
Well, Bhumi was no way behind Ananya and she looked stunning in her Lehnga.
Meanwhile, Ananya shared a video on her Instagram in which she is seen prepping up for her drop-dead gorgeous look for the pre-Diwali party bash.
Earlier, Bhumi and Sara shared a set of pictures in which the duo's beauty seem to be unparalleled.
Addressing jawans in Kargil on the occasion of Diwali, he said that such corrupt forces for many years blocked progress, but now all those gaps are being filled.
Modi's comments have come at a time when the Government has cancelled the FCRA licence of Rajiv Gandhi Foundation, leading to political sparring between the Congress and BJP.
Modi further said that following the Government's Atmanirbhar Bharat plan, all the three defence forces will now make 400 weapons indigenously.
He said that soon soldiers would be able to use modern indigenous weapons while the Government is preparing state of the art infrastructure in frontline areas to strengthen the country's defence.
Kargil, the PM said, has been witness to all victories against Pakistan and also reminisced about his visit there during the Kargil conflict in 1999.
He said that in today's global perspective, Diwali symbolises end of terrorism and therefore, it is imperative to spread the message of peace on the occasion.
Modi had reached Kargil earlier in the morning, to celebrate Diwali with personnel posted there.
Keeping his Diwali tryst with the soldiers alive, Modi landed in Kargil amid chilling cold to celebrate the festival of lights with the soldiers. The morning temperature was near the freezing point in Kargil.
Since his days as the chief minister of Gujarat, Modi has been visiting the soldiers on national festival Diwali to identify with them and share their joy.
Last year he celebrated Diwali in Nowshera border town of J&K's Jammu division.
In 2020, he shared the joys of the Diwali festival with soldiers in Jisalmer, Rajasthan.
In 2019, Modi went to Rajouri district in J&K on Diwali while in 2018 he was in Uttarakhand to celebrate Diwali with the Army and ITBP soldiers.
In 2017, the Prime Minister celebrated Diwali with the BSF soldiers in Gurez border town of J&K. Similarly in 2016 he went to Himachal Pradesh.
Modi celebrated Diwali in Punjab with soldiers in 2015, and in 2014 he went to the World's highest battlefield, Siachen glacier to be with the soldiers on Diwali.
After the government’s directives, responsible citizens have decided to say ‘No To Chinese Crackers’ this festive season, which are not only hazardous for health but also pollute the environment. People are thronging markets to buy rangoli colours, candles, crackers, sweets and other items.
Green crackers are in huge demand this year. This apart, Swiggy, Zomato, PayTM and Modern Kumphis are also attracting buyers too.
“Looking at the busy market and the traffic jam, you can guess how much the people were waiting to celebrate Diwali after two years of the Covid-19 pandemic. Especially, children are very happy. We will make sure that there is no pollution, but enjoy a little without affecting the environment,” said Bandana Mahapatra, a customer in Bhubaneswar.
Even cracker traders have become cautious of buying and selling hazardous Chinese crackers. Following the directives of the government, they are strictly denying to sell Chinese crackers and crackers producing more than 125 decibel sound.
A cracker trader, Harekrushna Tripathy said, “People have become conscious and they are not buying heavy sound crackers. Only the ‘kumphi’ and ‘chakri’ and green crackers are of huge demand. Even as the price is high, people are buying happily and we hope this year’s Diwali sale will be more than our expectation.”
On the other hand, The Twin City police has made all elaborate arrangements for a safe and happy Diwali in both Cuttack and Bhubaneswar. A team of six additional DSPs, 37 ASPs and 300 police forces have been deployed to check illegal sale of crackers.
The Commissionerate Police has strictly advised people to burst crackers only from 8PM – 10PM Monday night.
“We have set a few guidelines for the sale of firecrackers in the Twin City. Police have been deployed to check illegal crackers sale. And people can only burst crackers between 8-10PM,” informed Cuttack DCP Pinak Mishra.
On the other hand, Diwali this year, will be a one-day celebration as it collides with the Surya Grahan (Solar Eclipse) and also the Kali Puja or the Shyama Puja. Devotees in Puri Srimandir will also celebrate Diwali and offer prayers tomorrow before the Solar Eclipse as fasting and offer prayers is not advised after October 24, 4:57AM Monday night.
(Reported by Chandan Paikray, Debasish Mohanty & Madhusudan Mishra, OTV)
Talking about the food, the festival of Diwali is incomplete without sweets. Apart from sweets, there exists a diversity of snacks that are traditionally prepared during this festive season. Let’s have a look at some authentic pithas made during Diwali.
Chhena Poda
Ingredients
• Chena or Paneer - 2cups
• Sugar - ¾ cup (150 grams)
• Semolina - 3 tbsp (40 grams)
• Ghee - 2 tbsp
• Raisins - ¼ cup
• Cashews - ¼ cup
• Cardamoms – 4
How to prepare
In a baking pan with some chopped banana leaves. Grease the banana leaves with some ghee. Then take the 250 grams of fresh chenna and crumble it very well. Then add ½ cup sugar. You can also use ½ cup jaggery powder instead of sugar. Then continue to mash and knead the paneer or chenna like the way you would knead chapati dough. Once you get a batter-like consistency in the paneer mixture, then add ½ teaspoon cardamom powder and ½ tablespoon rice flour. Some chopped dry fruits like cashews, almonds and raisins can also be added. Bake chhena poda till the top crust gets a dark golden color. Serve chhena poda as dessert after meals or as a sweet snack.
Poda Pitha
Ingredients
• 150 gm black gram without skin
• 300 gm chaula rice
• 1 tsp cardamom powder
• 1 tsp black pepper powder
• 1 tbsp chopped ginger
• 10-15 fried cashews
• Grated coconut jiggery
• salt to taste
• ghee
• 5-6 sliced coconuts pieces
How to cook
Soak the black gram & rice separately for 4 hours. Blend the black gram with water in a blender and transfer it to a bowl add this to a bowl with some water to form a smooth batter. Blend the rice separately with some water into a coarse mixture. Add 1 tsp cardamom powder, 1 tsp black pepper powder, 1 tsp chopped ginger, 10-15 fried cashew, ½ cup grated coconut, ½ cup jaggery, a pinch of salt, and water and mix well. Grease a baking tin with ghee. Pour in the fermented batter. Top it with 5-6 sliced coconut pieces and fried cashew nuts. Bake the podu pitha at 165 degrees Celsius for 60 minutes in a preheated oven. Demold the podo pitha on a plate. Serve it once cooled.
Kakara
Ingredients
For the Covering
• 1/2 Cup Fine Rava, Semolina
• 3 tbsp Sugar
• 1 tsp Ghee Vegans can use oil
• 1 Cup Water
• 1/2 tsp Salt
For Stuffing
• 1/2 Cup Freshly Grated Coconut
• 1/2 tsp Cardamom Powder
• 1/4 Cup Sugar
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Powder
How to prepare
Traditional sweet recipe from Odia Cuisine, Sooji Kakara Pitha is a deep fried Semolina/Sooji dumpling stuffed with sweet coconut filling. Fresh coconut with jaggery and nuts and raisins (optional) is used for filling. The dumplings are then deep-fried till golden brown.
Input: Pritisha Das,(Food Author)
So, if you also want some healthy and less sweetening options than the traditional sweets like laddoos, Gulab jammuns, jalebis, rasgullas, gujiyas, kaju katlis, pedas, we have got you covered.
Here are three non-traditional desserts that you can make at home for a guilt-free Diwali binge-eating:
Nankhati
Ingredients
• 1 cup maida
• 1/2 cup besan flour
• 2 1/2 tps Semolina (sooji)
• 1/2 cup melted ghee
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 2 tbsp milk
• 10 Almonds (for garnish)
• 10 Pistachio (for garnish)
Method:
1. Powder sugar with cardamom to a fine powder.
2. Chop pista, almonds and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl take maida, wheat flour, besan flour. Whisk it well, set it aside.
4. Take melted ghee/butter in a wide mixing bowl. Add powdered sugar. Whisk it well.
5. Then add the flour mixture. Mix it well with our hands, it may resemble breadcrumbs.
6. Now add milk and bring together to form a soft dough. I used my measuring spoon to scoop out even sized cookies.
7. Roll them into a ball and flatten it slightly and arrange it on a baking tray.
8. Sprinkle chopped pistachios, almonds and slightly press it.
9. Preheat oven at 180 deg C fo 10mins.
10. Bake in preheated oven at 180 deg C fo 15-20mins or until the edges turn golden.
Gulab Rabri
Ingredients:
• ¾ litre milk
• 1/3 cup of sugar
• 8 to 10 strands of saffron
• ½ teaspoon raw beetroot juice
• ¼ teaspoon rose essence
• 1 tablespoon chopped almonds and pistachios
Method:
1. Heat a heavy-bottomed pan and add milk to it. Bring the milk to a boil until it’s reduced to half.
2. Scrape the malai from of the edges pans and add it to the boiling mil and let the milk thicken.
3. Now, add saffron and sugar to the milk and it simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Then, add the raw beetroot juice to the milk
5. Keep stirring the milk and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Add the chopped nuts and rose essence to the rabri and take it off the heat.
7. You can serve this gulab rabri either warm or chilled as per your preference.
Ragi And Coconut Ladoos
Ragi And Coconut Ladoos
Ingredients
• 1 cup ragi (finger millet) flour
• ½ cup finely-grated coconut
• 3 tbsp honey
• 3 tablespoon sesame seeds, roasted
Method
1. Heat a pan, and shallow fry the ragi flour until it becomes slightly brown. Transfer to a plate, and set aside to cool down.
2. Place the ragi flour in a bowl and add the honey and coconut. Mix well to a dough.
3. Prepare small round dumplings of the dough, coat in the roasted sesame seeds, and serve.
The Commissionerate Police has taken adequate arrangements to ensure zero crime during the festivals.
Informing about the arrangements in place, Mishra said, “Besides six officers of Additional DCP rank, around 37 officers of ASP rank, 55 officers of inspector rank and 282 officers have been deployed across the city to maintain law and order.”
Mishra also informed that stringent action will be taken against cracker manufacturing units and those who will be found selling them.
People have been directed to remain careful while bursting crackers. The bursting of crackers is allowed between 8 pm to 10 pm. Those who will be found violating the direction would be punished, informed Mishra.
A joint team of police and Odisha State Pollution Control Board will go around the city to ensure strict adherence of directions.
Notably, Goddess Kali will be worshipped at 90 pandals in Cuttack. Of them, there are 25 such pandals where the tableau is made of silver and the goddess will be adorned with gold ornaments. This is another reason why the police have given emphasis to heavy deployment.
Guwahati-based Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) said the well-marked low pressure area over north Andaman Sea and adjoining areas of south Andaman Sea, southeast Bay of Bengal moved west north westward and concentrated into a depression on Saturday morning.
It is very likely to move northwestward and intensify further into a deep depression over Bay of Bengal by Sunday morning.
Subsequently, it is very likely to recurve gradually north-northeast wards and intensify into a Cyclonic Storm over central Bay of Bengal by Monday morning.
Thereafter, it would continue to move north-northeast and cross the Bangladesh coast between Tinkona Island and Sandwip around October 25 early morning.
Tripura and various other state governments in the northeastern region have asked the district and disaster management authorities to make advance precautionary measures to deal with the cyclonic situations.
Earthen lamps and kandeels
This Diwali, embrace your traditions by lighting up your home with earthen lamps rather than Chinese lights. The latter may cost you less, but the former is eco-friendly and part of our heritage. You will definitely get these lamps from the vendors who have set up shop near your home or in the shops close by. By buying from them, you will not just boost their business but the country’s economy as well. Just give it a thought and forget about those Chinese fairy lights
Sweets
Diwali is incomplete without sweets. People usually get carried away by the fancy packaging of those big Diwali hampers containing chocolates, cookies, juices or other packaged foods. In the process, they completely forget the desi mithai of a local halwai. You might think that a Gulab Jamun is more calorie-dense than a chocolate but it is actually the latter that has more calories. Besides, a plate full of gulab jamuns, barfis or kaju katli gives you a sense of festivity or celebration that no box of chocolates does!
Pooja Samagri
You may turn to online sites to buy pooja samagri. But hold on! All these items are available at a local shop as well. Make a list of items required for the pooja and hand it over to your local shopkeeper. This process will just take a few minutes of yours but will go a long way in filling someone’s Diwali with happiness.
Though buying from local vendors or shopkeepers may take some of your time, but going out, shopping and interacting with people is also a part of Diwali celebrations. With online shopping, you’ll get the products but you will miss out on the festive experience.
Stay at home with your pets
It reassures them that they are not alone and can seek you out anytime they want. If you must step out, make sure their hiding place - under the bed or under the stairs or under the dining table, has their favourite toys or bed underneath so that they feel secure.
Cover their ears
Cover their heads and ears with a large scarf or earmuffs so the sounds of the crackers are minimised. They may not be immediately comfortable with a cloth covering their heads, so start training with them a couple of months in advance. If possible, put some cotton wool in the ears to lessen the noise coming in from outside.
Play games with them
Distract your pet's interest. Play games like fetch or ball with them, treat them with their favourite goodies and keep them around you. If they get scared when a firecracker goes off, cuddle them and ease their discomfort. You could also turn on the TV or play some music to drown out the sounds from the street below. This helps to lessen their anxiety.
Choose a room with least noise to house them
To avoid being disturbed by the flash of the firecrackers, keep the windows closed and draw the curtains. Keep your pooch in the room with the least amount of noise. Don't worry them much either as they may snap at you or attack you as they are already scared.
Put an identifying tag
Make sure your pet cat or dog is wearing an identifying tag with your contact information on their collar. If the pet runs away, a good samaritan may find it and return your little furry friend to you.
Avoid setting off fireworks near animals
If you must play with firecrackers, light them at a distance from the pets or a little away from your house. Avoid lighting bombs which create the maximum noise. Play with crackers that emit light and less sound.
Keep water for the birds
Since pollution increases considerably at this time of the year, for a variety of reasons ranging from stubble burning to crackers, keep water bowls for the birds on the parapet or balconies around the house.
This Deepawali or Diwali, help your pets feel a little more secure, a lot more loved and a lot less scared. They will love you more for the extra attention that you shower on them.
Mamit is located around 95 kms from Aizawl and famous for its scenic locales, the Dampa Tiger Reserve and artificial lakes. October to March is the best time to visit this little known corner of Mizoram.
Amritsar is a sight to behold on Diwali as the city has the most stunning Diwali celebrations. For Sikhs, Diwali is a holy day, and when the Golden Temple and its surroundings are sparkling, Amritsar is the place to be. The celebrations conclude with lots of fireworks.
In October, Gangtok observes the national Diwali Festival, which is a joyous occasion for Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. The festival's central tenet - the triumph of good over evil is celebrated by lighting candles and lanterns. Since Gangtok has banned the usage of fireworks, the city is more tranquil than ever.
Jaipur is decorated in the most unusual way on Diwali, with all malls and marketplaces competing with each other for the title of Best Decoration. Every corner, from the new streets to the ancient markets, is a sight to behold! There are endless photo ops - as Jaipur shows off its beauty through lit up monuments, palaces, havelis and marketplaces.
Though in the past Goa was the destination to be at around New Year, now the celebrations begin on Diwali itself. The main attractions here are the huge effigies of Narakasura - a demon, that are made on the occasion of Naraka Chaturdashi. These effigies are burnt late that night to symbolise the triumph of good over evil - the essential tenet of Deepawali. Different villages and localities compete with each other to erect bigger and more magnificent effigies.
So, use your weekend well. Take that well earned time off this Deepawali and visit these destinations to rejuvenate yourself.
Celebrate the Diwali break with your kids in a way that is relaxing, engaging, entertaining and safe. Go ahead and bookmark these points.
Choose Comfort Over Style: Yes, Diwali is all about those designer lehengas, sherwanis, sarees and dhotis. Go ahead, pamper yourself and the family and opt for a sustainable designer wear brand and get the photo-ops done and out of the way. But after it is done, choose clothing that is comfortable. Especially when bursting fire crackers say yes to comfort and safety and no to over flowy dresses.
Join Hands With Your Li'l Masterchef: Step into the kitchen with your children and share the joy of cooking with them. Sit and mould ladoos in perfect and not-so-perfect ways but create memories in the process!
Bond Over Rangoli: Another safe and fun way to engage kids is to bond over colours- another beautiful custom we have in Indian culture. There's some serious focus and dedication kids learn when they design colourful Rangoli or the simpler alternative- Kolam in South India. Hand them over a pack of colours, and some Rangoli stencils and give them a dedicated space. If they are too young, a corner of their room would do. For the older ones, trust them with the space near the entrance of your house. They will feel happy! P.S- remember not to deck them with the prettiest or newest clothes when doing Rangoli!
Book Your Time For Movie Nights: After a tiring schedule of celebration, parties and endless selfies, wind the day with the best activity with your kids. Bookmark a list of the best family-friendly movies you can watch with the kids on OTT. There's nothing better than cosy cuddles with your kids and a bowl of makhanas or popcorn- try it!
Create Best From Waste: From discarded pista or groundnut shells to old leaves and flowers to pencil sharpenings, there is just so much we can do to decorate the house and the child's room, to proudly display our attempts! Try it, it is a lot of fun!!
Answer Their Whys: Kids need answers. All the time. Every time. When they see you making those laddoos, or the Laxmi Pooja or lighting so many lamps- they are going to be asking you all the questions about why we do what we do. Why not answer it in a language they understand? Tune into kids podcasts or watch exclusive kids videos on YouTube with a puppet show on Ramayan to answer their questions. Read books on Diwali, listen to podcasts on stories that answer the whys and hows. Search for the I Am Not Bored podcast that answers all of your child's questions and addresses that curiosity.
Sanghavi has announced that no fine will be levied for traffic rule violations in the state starting from October 21 to 27. However, the announcement just ahead of the elections due by the end of this year has triggered mixed reactions from the Opposition.
ભારતીય સંસ્કૃતિનો સૌથી મોટો ઉજાસ ઉત્સવ એટલે દિવાળી. રંગોળીઓના રંગ, મિષ્ટાનોની ભરમાર અને દીવા તેમજ ફટાકડાનો ઉમંગ લઈને આ તહેવાર આવે છે. આ તહેવાર નિમિત્તે મૃદુ અને મક્કમ ગુજરાત સરકારના મુખ્ય મંત્રી શ્રી @Bhupendrapbjp જી નો વધુ એક પ્રજાલક્ષી નિર્ણય pic.twitter.com/V1omwopeWV
— Harsh Sanghavi (@sanghaviharsh) October 21, 2022
Making the announcement, Sanghavi said, it was another pro-people decision by the Gujarat government and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. But the minister warned that this would not mean the public should not follow traffic rules.
Making the announcement through a video in Gujarati, the minister said, "Don't use the decision to break the law. If someone breaks the rules, the Gujarat police will persuade them not to, by giving flowers."
"Diwali is the festival of lights... and comes with the colours of rangoli, lots of sweets, and the excitement of lamps and crackers," he tweeted.
Gujarat drivers for a week 😂 https://t.co/V4xks7gpy0 pic.twitter.com/jV2g4Io8Kk
— K (@Nfpunter) October 21, 2022
"On this occasion, this is one more pro-people decision of Bhupendra Patel ji," Mr Sanghavi added.
Meanwhile, Twitter has been filled with hilarious reactions and memes post the announcement with a section of people targeting the Gujarat government for making the announcement just ahead of the election.
A user wrote, "Stand and watch the traffic at a traffic signal someday," while another wrote, "This decision is unfair. No one will fear the law. As a result, the accident rate will increase."
Gujarati riders from tomorrow pic.twitter.com/aznt7JCovz
— Sunderdeep - Volklub (@volklub) October 21, 2022
However, a few people also welcomed the move saying that it will encourage people to follow traffic rules voluntarily.
But there’s one more thing that many of us look forward to during this festival season and that is the Diwali Bonus. We are quite sure that many of you would have already thought about what to do with it. If you are planning to spend it on discretionary items, then hold on! Spending on such items may provide immediate gratification but there is much more that can be done if you invest your bonus appropriately.
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) of mutual funds is one such avenue that gives an opportunity to earn good returns for both active and passive investors.
You can either choose to invest monthly beginning with an amount as low as Rs 500 or if you just want to invest only your bonus money in SIP then go for an annual term. The returns are almost similar in both the cases.
For example, if your company is giving you a bonus of Rs 12000 on Diwali. You can invest this money in SIP for a period of 5 years, 10 years or even longer than that. Usually, you will earn 12-15 percent on an average when you invest in an SIP, the maximum going upto 22-25 percent.
Let’s just go on with an average interest rate. In case you invest Rs 12000 every year under an SIP plan in mutual funds, at 12 percent annual interest rate for 10 years, your total investment would be Rs 1,20,000 and the amount you would be receiving at the end of the tenure is Rs 2,35,855, which means you are making a profit of Rs 1,15,855.
Isn’t it a good deal? So, just think once before spending your bonus. Moreover, the icing on the cake is a tax exemption benefit of Rs 1.5 lakh under section 80C of the Income tax, available under SIP.
Floral blouse with plain saree:
Wearing a floral blouse with a plain saree not only breaks the monotony of one colour but also enhances the overall look. While choosing a blouse you can either opt for the same base colour or go for contrast. For saree shopping, try out these online portals: Bharatshali or Utsavfashion - which are exclusively for saree shoppers
Chanderi Suit with Banarasi Dupatta:
The combination of Chanderi with Banarasi looks elegant as well as royal. You can either go monochrome by pairing a monochromatic (for eg - maroon) chanderi suit with a red dupatta or pair a yellow chanderi suit with a pink banarasi dupatta and let the contrast do the talking. You can also create a combination with your favourite colours. Amazon is one of the online portals to buy this ethnic wear.
Ruffle Lehenga Choli:
Ruffle lehengas are trending this season - due to their subtle and fashionable look. The appeal of asymmetry is timeless and so, ruffle designs actually make you look classy. You can also elevate your entire look with a ruffled dupatta. So, choose your colour and go all out with ruffles this Diwali. The best place to buy this outfit online is Kreeva.
Chikankari georgette kurta with gharara:
Traditional yet trendy, choosing chikankari georgette kurta with ghagara is the classiest choice you can opt for Diwali. Easy to carry, the pair looks vibrant and gives a captivating look. So, this festive season, you can try out a short chikankari georgette kurti with a gharara. You can either go to mirraw or azafashions to view some of the best collections.
Anarkali Suit:
Not in the mood to experiment? Go for an Anarkali suit, which is a staple in the traditional wardrobe. It is perfect for all body types and will only make you look fabulous. This classic ensemble never goes off-trend in the present scenario and comes in several versions. To buy a piece, you must check out Fabja.
Choose one from the above ethnic wear and you are all set to shine bright this Diwali.
They were joined by Department of Education chancellor David Banks.
The announcement comes two days before the festival of lights, which falls on October 24.
"We are going to encourage children to learn about what is Diwali," he added. "We're going to have them start talking about what it is to celebrate the Festival of Lights, and how do you turn a light on within yourself," Adams said.
The festival is celebrated by more than a billion people around the world, and signifies victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
"The time has come to recognise over 200,000 New Yorkers of the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain faiths who celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights," Rajkumar, who introduced legislation to recognise Diwali, said in the press conference.
For over two decades, South Asians and Indo-Caribbeans in New York have been fighting for a school holiday on Diwali.
"People have said that there's simply not enough room in the New York City school calendar to have a Diwali school holiday," the assemblywoman said. "Well, my legislation makes the room," said Rajkumar, the first South Asian American woman elected to state-level office in New York.
The new school schedule will still have 180 school days, as is required by the state's education laws, Rajkumar added.
Adding Diwali to the school calendar replaces the little-known Brooklyn-Queens Day -- which originated as a Protestant holiday celebrated in the 1800s.