Homes and temples glow across India as Diwali celebrations begin
Summary
Diwali celebrations began across India on 6 November, with families lighting lamps, praying, sharing meals and sweets, and decorating homes and streets. Concerns about air pollution have intensified ahead of fireworks, especially in Delhi, where authorities have allowed certified lower-emission firecrackers for a limited period.Key Facts
- Diwali is celebrated on the darkest night of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik.
- The festival is associated with the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya and the triumph of good over evil.
- Common traditions include prayers, family gatherings, gifts, sweets, oil lamps called diyas and decorative rangoli patterns.
- Delhi's air quality index reached 391 on Friday, in the “very poor” category.
- Mumbai's AQI reached 322 on 24 October, then improved to 104 on Friday, classified as “moderate.”
- India's Supreme Court permitted certified green firecrackers in Delhi and nearby areas for a limited period.
- Green firecrackers are designed to produce 20–30% fewer emissions than conventional fireworks, though critics question their effectiveness.
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