Guwahati (Assam) [India], October 29 (HBTV): With the festival of lights approaching, the people of Guwahati have begun celebrating Kali Puja and Diwali.

The Vivekananda Sporting Club in the Colony Bazar area celebrated their Diamond Jubilee along with Diwali and Kali Puja. A unique Kali Puja pandal, featuring a replica of Thailand’s Wat Arun Temple, became a major attraction for visitors.

Sashanka Chakraborty, an office bearer of the Vivekananda Sporting Club, shared that the budget for the celebrations was approximately Rs 35 lakh. "This year, we are showcasing a replica of the Wat Arun Temple of Thailand as our pandal theme," Chakraborty said. "We have a 3-day program to celebrate Kali Puja and Diwali, starting from October 31. We will also distribute blankets to the poor and organize a blood donation drive. We expect thousands of people to join in the celebrations," he added.

Meanwhile, the bustling Fancy Bazar area has been lit up with vibrant lights, and markets are filled with people buying decorations and firecrackers. A firecracker seller noted an increase in sales this year, despite a slight rise in prices. "People are still coming to buy firecrackers to celebrate Diwali," the trader shared, as various types of firecrackers were displayed to attract customers.

Diwali, celebrated worldwide, is known as the Festival of Lights, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. As families prepare for the festivities, homes will be decorated with colourful rangolis, illuminated diyas, and fairy lights.   

(ANI)