Diwali being celebrated across India today

The Festival of Lights, Diwali, is being celebrated across India today.

The President, the Vice President and the Prime Minister have greeted the nation on the occasion of Diwali.

President Pranab Mukherjee, who extended his warm greetings and good wishes to the countrymen in India and around the world on Diwali, called for a pollution free celebration on the occasion.

"On the joyous occasion of Diwali, I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to my countrymen in India and around the world. Diwali is a time for festivity and happiness cutting across all faiths and cultures. It is an occasion to share our joy with those who are needy and deprived," said President Mukherjee in his message.

"The diyas lit on the moonless night of Diwali signify the end of the darkness of ignorance and the beginning of light that enlightens all," he added.

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh also wished the people of the country on the occasion of Diwali.

Singh in his greetings expressed the hope that the festival of lights this year will mark the beginning of a new phase of optimism for each one of his countrymen. He also wished peace and prosperity for the people.

In Tamilnadu, Diwali is being celebrated with traditional gaiety and religious fervor.

Shopping fever gripped New Delhi, as crowds made a beeline to a festive fair exhibiting candles and earthen lamps ahead of Diwali.

The stalls were lined with designer candles, lampshades wooden furniture, earthen lamps candles, paper craft and stationery, and various other items of home decor, jewellery and clothes.

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