'Deepavli', the festival of lights, was celebrated throught the country today with religious fervour and gaiety, as tinkling of pooja bells, gentle chanting of prayers and the soothing fragrance of scented incense sticks wafted through the air amidst bursting of crackers. Colourful 'diyas' and vibrant candles adorned the houses which wore a festive look as the sky turned dark. Exquisite geometric designed 'rangolis' adorned the doorsteps of many a household to welcome Laxmi -- the goddess of wealth. Hundreds thronged temples to invoke the blessings of the deities and exchanged greetings and offered sweets to people.
In Chennai, people after having an oil bath and attired in their colourful best welcomed the break of dawn by lighting fire crackers. In Mumbai, devout Hindus had 'pahli angol' (the first bath) and children burst crackers at the break of dawn to usher in the festival. Elaborate prayers were held in several households and silver coins with a picture of Laxmi embossed were distributed to mark Laxmi pooja.
In the capital, the houses were illuminated with colouful lights as sounds of crackers boomed the air. Bureau Report