Diwali, Kali Puja celebrated with great fervour in Bengal

Kolkata, Oct 28 (UNI) West Bengal today joined the nation in celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights with great fervour and enthusiasm as the houses were illuminated with colourful lights and candles.

A huge chunk of people particularly children, came out on the streets to celebrate the occasion exchanging Diwali greetings.

People lighted 14 lamps in their houses, believed to bring in peace, prosperity and wealth.

Wearing new clothes, people visited their friends and relatives' to greet them and distribute sweets and presents.

Elaborate preparations were also made in every household by undertaking whitewashing, cleaning and decorating to welcome Goddess Lakshmi on the pious occasion.

Long queues were seen in front of jewellery shops on the occasion of Dhanteras yesterday as the Hindus believe that purchasing gold on the occasion ensures that coffers remain filled for the entire coming year.

Children and adults alike were seen bursting variety of firecrackers and enjoying themselves.

The state government had made elaborate security arrangements to prevent any untoward incident especially in and around famous temples like Dakhineshwar and Kalighat where devotees were seen in large numbers to pay their homage to the Goddess Kali.

Meanwhile, Bengalis celebrated Kali Puja simultaneously with taditional gaiety and fervour. The main rituals for the worship of Goddess Kali begins after midnight.

UNI DPM-RH ADG AKJ RAI1827