Diwali festivities start in Asom

Guwahati, Oct 21 (UNI) The people of Asom, along with other parts of the country, today prepared to usher in the festival of lights with the worship of Goddess Kali.

People made a bee-line to the make-shift stalls, selling fire crackers, which had been put up especially for the festival.

A state, where people are more accustomed to hearing sounds of real bomb blasts and gun shots, the noises of diwali are seen as a welcome break.

The Asom bandh yesterday had set the mood for the festival with children, who enjoy this time of the year most, starting their celebrations a day in advance.

Diwali bombs were the major craze with all as in past years. The government had warned against use of high decibel bombs and their sell was also being monitored.

However, the festive lovers were not to be deterred and made the most of the bombs that were available.

While some made their way to the commercial hubs of the city for a better bargain, most preferred the stall on the street corner.

Sweet shops did brisk business with the custom of sending sweet packets, as in other parts of the country, has also caught up in the state.

While traditional diyas continued to be the preferred means of lighting up homes, the electric lights, which were sold-out items last couple of years, registered damp sales.

The regular power cuts were seen as the reason behind it. As long hours passed plunged in darkness in the past weeks, the people filled their stock of diyas and candles.

UNI SG JYN AB 1702