November 1, 09:30Aaj Tak

Review of Seven Places in India Worth Visiting During Diwali Festival

As Diwali approaches, an atmosphere of joy, decorations, and light spreads across the country. Some homes are adorned with garlands, while markets and historical buildings transform with colorful lights. However, there are places in India where the Diwali celebration takes on a completely different character; for instance, thousands of lamps shine on the banks of the Ganges, accompanied by grand ceremonies worshipping Goddess Kali.

The period from October to November is considered favorable for travel. If you are planning a trip with family or friends for Diwali, consider including these seven Indian destinations in your itinerary.

Places to Visit During Diwali

In Ayodhya, Diwali is closely associated with the return of Lord Rama. During Dipotsav, lights are lit along the banks of the Sarayu River and in many parts of the city. A large number of people gather at Ram Ki Paidi to witness the magnificent decorations and rows of lamps.

The spectacle of Diwali in Varanasi is truly breathtaking. Diyas are lit on the banks of the Ganges, and temples are decorated with flowers. The atmosphere becomes reverent during the evening Ganga Aarti. Dev Diwali, celebrated after Diwali, is of particular interest, when millions of lamps are lit on the riverbanks.

In Jaipur, the markets are vibrant during Diwali. The area around Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, and Hawa Mahal is illuminated. Here, one can not only shop but also enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine and sweets.

The beauty of the Golden Temple in Amritsar is especially impressive on Diwali day. The entire Gurudwara shines with lights, and its reflection in the pond looks very picturesque. Furthermore, Amritsar celebrates Prisoners' Day, which holds special significance in Sikh faith.

In Kolkata, Diwali is accompanied by the celebration of Kali Puja. Grand pavilions are erected in the city to worship Goddess Kali, and temples and streets are decorated. Experiencing Kali Puja and getting acquainted with Bengali culture can make a Diwali trip unforgettable.

Udaipur, known for its lakes and palaces, glows with lights during Diwali. A walk around Lake Pichola, the Citadel, and the old markets brings special pleasure. It is an ideal place for those who wish to combine the festival with tranquility and beautiful scenery.

In Delhi, the festive atmosphere is felt in both markets and residential areas. In places like Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, and Lajpat Nagar, there is a special buzz of shopping. Here, one can enjoy sweets, decorative items, and brightly lit streets.

A trip to these places during Diwali will allow you not only to admire beautiful sights but also to get closer to the diverse traditions and culture of India.

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www.aajtak.inOctober 31, 05:16

Vastu Tips: Five Corners of the House to Clear Before Diwali to Attract Lakshmi's Blessings

As the festival of Diwali approaches, people begin preparing their homes by cleaning and decorating. In Hinduism, Diwali is considered a festival welcoming the goddess Lakshmi. According to religious beliefs, Goddess Lakshmi resides in a clean home, which is why a thorough cleaning is conducted in every corner of the dwelling before Diwali.

Vastu Shastra also emphasizes the importance of maintaining cleanliness in the house. It is believed that clutter and unnecessary items can amplify negative energy. Therefore, when preparing for Diwali, attention should be paid to often-ignored areas. Below are five places that must be cleared before this festival.

Vastu Tips for Diwali:

1. Keep the Main Entrance Clean

In Vastu Shastra, the main entrance to the house is considered extremely important. It is believed that positive energy enters the dwelling through this point. Therefore, before Diwali, the main entrance and the surrounding area must be thoroughly cleaned of dust, cobwebs, and dirt. Old shoes, broken pots, or unnecessary items should not be left near the door. You can also decorate this spot with a beautiful rangoli and lamps.

2. Don't Forget to Clean the Shrine

During Diwali, worship is performed to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. Due to this, special attention should be paid to the cleanliness of the home shrine. Statues, photographs, and ritual items in the shrine must be cleaned. Old flowers, garlands, and offerings should be removed. A clean cloth should be laid in the shrine, and necessary items such as lamps and incense should be placed correctly. Religious belief states that performing rituals in a clean place brings peace of mind.

3. Maintain Cleanliness in the Ishan Corner of the House

In Vastu Shastra, the northeastern sector is called the Ishan Corner. It is considered auspicious for religious rites and worship. Therefore, before Diwali, unnecessary items, old boxes, and junk should be removed from this direction. Try to keep this area clean and organized. According to beliefs, disorder or untidiness in the Ishan Corner can negatively affect the positivity of the home.

4. Clean Around Cabinets and Safes

During Diwali, worship is performed to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera. Therefore, it is essential to clean around cabinets and safes in the house before this festival. Remove old papers, unnecessary receipts, and extra items stored in them. Wipe the safe with a clean cloth and neatly place money and important documents. According to Vastu, the cleanliness of the money storage area is considered auspicious.

5. Also Clean the Roof, Balcony, and Pantry

When cleaning for Diwali, people often forget about the roof, balcony, and pantry. Old boxes, broken items, and trash accumulate in these areas. They should be thoroughly cleaned before Diwali. Remove dry leaves from plants on the balcony and clear up trash accumulated on the roof. Vastu Shastra asserts that maintaining cleanliness in these parts of the house is a good sign.

www.aajtak.inOctober 24, 13:05

Five Lesser-Known Beautiful Places in India for a Relaxing Getaway Instead of Goa and Manali

If you love to travel and are tired of visiting popular destinations like Goa, Jaipur, or Manali, you might want to try something completely different. India has many picturesque places that few people know about, but whose natural beauty, historical structures, and unique culture can capture your heart.

You can see snow-capped mountains, ocean waves, traces of ancient civilizations, or a scenic island in the middle of a river. If you want to explore something new while avoiding crowds on your next vacation, be sure to include these five Indian destinations in your travel list.

Lesser-Known Tourist Spots in India:

Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh state)

If you love mountains and want to get away from crowded places like Shimla or Manali, Tawang is worth visiting. This beautiful town, located in Arunachal Pradesh, is known for its snow-capped peaks, quiet lakes, and lush valleys. Its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere attract tourists.

One of Tawang's most prominent attractions is a famous Buddhist monastery, valued for its religious and historical significance. By visiting this place, you can not only enjoy magnificent mountain landscapes but also get closer to Buddhist culture. However, before traveling, it is necessary to check information regarding weather, road conditions, and required permits.

Gokarna (Karnataka state)

If you prefer a beach holiday but want to avoid the hustle and bustle of Goa, Gokarna could be the perfect choice. Located in Karnataka, this region is famous for its beautiful beaches, calm atmosphere, and natural scenery. Initially considered primarily a religious site, it is now becoming popular among those seeking a relaxing vacation.

Here, you can spend time by the sea, go trekking on scenic trails, and enjoy food at local cafes. The peaceful ambiance and stunning sea views make this place ideal for a trip with friends or a partner.

Dholavira (Gujarat state)

If you are interested in history and ancient civilizations, be sure to visit Dholavira, located in Kutch, Gujarat state. It is a crucial archaeological monument of the Indus Valley civilization and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can see the remains of the Harappan civilization dating back thousands of years.

A distinctive feature of Dholavira is its ancient urban planning system and impressive water harvesting technology. These ruins suggest how skilled the people of that time were in water resource management and city planning. During your trip, you can also plan to visit White Rann in Kutch and other nearby natural sites. Before traveling, you should gather information about the weather and available infrastructure.

Majuli (Assam state)

If you want to experience local culture up close while surrounded by nature, Majuli in Assam can offer a unique experience. This island in the Brahmaputra River is famous for its Vaishnavite traditions, monasteries, and traditional art. It provides an opportunity to learn about the culture and way of life of Assam.

The main features of Majuli are the traditional masks made there and the colorful cultural festivals. Furthermore, the beautiful views around the river and the lifestyle of the locals attract tourists. If you want to visit a place where you can not only walk around but also learn something, include Majuli in your travel list. Since a ferry may be required to arrive, be sure to check its availability and schedule before the trip.

Mandu (Madhya Pradesh state)

If you want to combine history, architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes, you should go to Mandu, Madhya Pradesh state. Here, you can explore ancient palaces, mosques, baolis, and historic buildings. The stories and legends associated with these places make a trip to Mandu special.

During the monsoon season, the greenery around Mandu intensifies, making the view incredibly beautiful. At this time of year, you can see many stunning sights, which is perfect for photography enthusiasts. The historical structures and peaceful atmosphere make Mandu an excellent place to visit with friends, family, or a partner.