Delhi pollution is increasing at an alarming rate. If Delhi no longer enchants you but you are in love with your favorite festival Diwali, there are other cities where you can rejoice Diwali with equal zeal.
Diwali that celebrates Lord Rama’s coming back to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile has become that time of the year when the entire family unites to celebrate the occasion with rituals, prayers, lamps and food. If Delhi is not your destination to celebrate Diwali because of the poor air quality, we have listed a few places that you can fly to celebrate the festival, rejoice varying tradition and enjoy the regional delicacies.
Varanasi
The city of ghats is a vision during Diwali. As millions of lamps grace the Ganga ghats, Varanasi becomes an iconic destination during Diwali. You can start your day with a dip at a Ganga ghat and then head on to exploring the crowded markets. Go for a boat ride at sunset and soak in the vision of the lamps. The religious chants and ritual performed at the ghats add to the spiritual charm of the place. The colorful bursting of crackers adds to the aura. The Ganga Mahotsav starts in a few days. Stay back to experience the rich cultural heritage of the country.
Jaipur/Udaipur
No state celebrates Diwali as Rajasthan does. Celebrations in Jaipur start a few days before Diwali with Dhanteras. Eminent forts in the city like Nahargarh For are decorated with lamps and provides for an enchanting vision at the full moon night.., including stunning glimpses of the illuminated walled city. Udaipur is another city that will leave you awestruck with the reflection of glowing majestic forts on the lakes especially the Jal Mahal. Introduce yourself to the history of Rajasthan. Explore what is the tale of the Chittorgarh queen Padmavati before you watch the movie.
Kolkata:
While North India prays to Goddess Laxmi. West Bengal celebrates Kali Puga, a Goddess of the Shakti cult. The occasion is second biggest to Durga Puja that commenced almost a month back. Pandal hopping begins yet again and unique offerings are made to her during this fest. Apart from sweets and flowers, fish, meat and even a buffalo calf are offered to the Goddess. The city like rest of the nation is lit up with lamps all over. The city of joy assembles a joyous affair during Diwali.
Amritsar:
Diwali at Amritsar glitters as the iconic Golden temple is decorated with lights and the lake surrounding it is lighted with countless oil lamps and candles. Apart from the usual fireworks and the mouthwatering Punjabi dishes Lassi and Chole Khulche, Diwali coincides with a Sikh festival, the celebrations of Bandi Chhor Divas. It marks the return of Sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. According to history, he who freed himself and Hindu Kings from the prison of Islamic ruler Jahangir and arrived at the Golden temple in 1619.
Purushwadi
This quiet village of Maharashtra is not a popular destination but can make your subtle vacation. Families in this little hamlet celebrate their unique Diwali lighting a bonfire on the night and cook local food. The children of the village move from door to door, singing traditional songs, inviting each household to pour oil into their oil lamps, mounted atop a handmade bundle of sticks.
As Diwali comes near, flight prices rise with every passing day. Choose a homestay instead of a luxury hotel chain. Opt for a down to earth experience. When you turn through photographs of these scenic places next Diwali, you will cherish and relive every moment.
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