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India Celebrates Diwali with Lights and Cheer Amidst Rising Pollution

Across India, from Chennai to Delhi and beyond, citizens celebrated Diwali on Monday with traditional fervor, marked by lights, fireworks, and family gatherings. Iconic landmarks like Mumbai’s Shivaji Park, Srinagar’s Ghanta Ghar, and Amritsar’s Golden Temple glowed with festive illumination.

However, the joyous celebrations were shadowed by a significant rise in air pollution, particularly in Delhi. The capital’s Air Quality Index (AQI) climbed to 345, prompting warnings from the Central Pollution Control Board that conditions could worsen to “severe” levels. While the Supreme Court had approved the use of eco-friendly firecrackers only, many neighborhoods still witnessed widespread fireworks displays throughout the night.

Elsewhere, celebrations unfolded with local flavor. In Tamil Nadu, enthusiasm remained high despite heavy rainfall, with streets adorned with lamps and rangolis. Bengaluru’s markets bustled with shoppers acquiring sweets and decorations, amidst stricter enforcement of firecracker restrictions. In Punjab and Haryana, temples and gurdwaras saw large crowds of devotees, and heartwarming initiatives saw police personnel celebrating with vulnerable populations.

Chief Minister’s joined in on the celebrations, like Pushkar Singh Dhami who spent the holiday in flood-hit Uttarakhand, offering reassurance and support to affected residents. Mamata Banerjee offered prayers at Kolkata’s Kalighat Temple, and Manik Saha inaugurated Diwali festivities at Tripura’s historic Maa Tripura Sundari temple, highlighting the government’s focus on promoting spiritual tourism.

Despite the environmental concerns, Diwali was largely observed as a time of joy, unity, and compassion, with Prime Minister Modi echoing sentiments for harmony and prosperity.

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