Karnataka Lights Up: Deepavali Celebrations Illuminate State

Karnataka celebrated Deepavali with great enthusiasm as citizens engaged in traditional activities, including visiting temples, decorating homes, and bursting crackers. State leaders Siddaramaiah and D K Shivakumar emphasized environmental care during festivities. Additionally, safety measures were implemented for traffic and healthcare services in response to potential firecracker-related incidents.

Deepavali celebrations engulfed Karnataka on Monday, as locals thronged temples, tastefully decorated their homes with flowers and lamps, and set off fireworks to honor the festival of lights.

In new festive attire, residents exchanged greetings, embodying the festival's spirit of light triumphing over darkness.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar extended Deepavali greetings on social media platform 'X', urging citizens to prioritize environmental responsibility by using only green firecrackers and ensuring children's safety.

Siddaramaiah expressed hopes for the festival to dispel societal darkness, while Shivakumar wished for prosperity and progress for all. As Bengaluru markets like KR Market, Chickpet, and Avenue Road bustled with activity, the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board enforced Supreme Court-directed firecracker regulations.

Bengaluru Traffic Police deployed special measures to alleviate congestion near major commercial and temple areas, and hospitals remained alert for any firecracker-related injuries.

Deepavali spans three days in Karnataka, featuring Naraka Chaturdashi with traditional oil baths and fireworks, Lakshmi Puja honoring the goddess of wealth, and Balipadyami commemorating King Bali.

(With inputs from agencies.)