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. President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, Vice-President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and NAC Chairperson Sonia Gandhi have greeted the people on the occasion of Diwali.In her message, Mrs. Patil said Diwali, the festival of lights, is a celebration of the victory of good over evil. Vice President Mr. Ansari said Diwali, which is celebrated throughout the country in a mood of festivity and gaiety, symbolises the triumph of good over evil, of light over darkness, of truth over untruth. The Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh said it is significant that the festival is celebrated by people from diverse faiths and called it an affirmation of the great secular traditions of India. The Congress President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi also conveyed her greetings to all countrymen.