Diwali is being celebrated across the country with traditional fervour and gaiety. People are celebrating it through festive fireworks, lights, flowers, sharing of sweets, and gifts. Newly painted houses have been illuminated with latest lightings available in market. Apart from being an occasion to buy new things, it also connects and brings people together in camaraderie. Diwali, like other Indian festival, also plays an important role realising happiness or 'ananda' which remains the essence of life. The philosophical aspect of the festival is grounded in the triumph of good over evil. It also marks the beginning of the New Samvat Year. Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists also celebrate this festival for different reasons. Buddhists celebrate this festival to honor King Ashoka who pledged to Ahimsa or Non-violence on this day. The timing of festival just before the weekend has only added to the joy of the people. Diwali The festival of lights Deepawali is being celebrated in Madhya Pradesh with traditional enthusiasm and religious fervor. Governor Rameshwar Thakur, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and several dignitaries have extended their greetings to the people on this occasion. In Uttar Pradesh, Deepawali is being celebrated with traditional gaiety and joy. After yesterday’s Choti Deepawali Households are busy for this evening celebrations and Lakshmi-Ganeh puja. Throughout the state Civil administrations have made arrangements and crackers are being sold from specific venues only .Meanwhile the state police spokesperson has said that elaborate security arrangements have been made in the state.The Diwali joy and festive mood are been seeing everywhere in the state. People in large number took dip in holy rivers in Allahabad, Varanasi and other places in morning hours today. Markets are crowded for last few days are indicative of celebration of Deepawali. Many places House are already illuminating with colorful lights since dhantares. A large number of devotees are reaching in Varanasi to take part in late night kali Puja being organized in various temples. In Mathura traditional Deepdan ceremony was held last night at banks of Yamuna River. Foreign tourists are also being seen enjoying diwali at different places. In Uttar Pradesh at many places traditionally people not illuminate their houses only but they also lit candles at drgaha of Sufi saints and many of them also visit to nearby mosques to place diyas to pray for well being for all. Gurudwara’s are also decorated with lights and organizing special Gurbani today. In Andaman and Nicobar Islands Diwali is being celebrated with great joy and religious fervour