Hyderabad, Oct 15 : Diwali shoppers here are thronging markets to buy designer earthen lamps called ''Diyas'', to light up their homes during the festival.

Of course, with the changing times people have now started opting for the less cumbersome and glitzy plastic and electric lamps. But the importance of the traditional earthen lamps continues.

"We prefer to light diyas as it is in our tradition. And we want to follow our tradition. We do not like lighting candles instead of diyas as one doesn''t feel that one is praying. There is a lot of variety of diyas that we get here," said Anitha, a customer.

People buy these lamps not only to decorate their homes but also make a show of them during the festival season.

Lamps in various shapes and sizes are available. Shankho diyas (earthen lamps shaped like a conch), seashell diyas and Ganesha diyas (earthen lamps shaped like Lord Ganesha) seem to be quite popular.

"We get all kinds of diyas here as per our demand. It is once in a year that the festival comes. So, why not get special designer diyas for the occasion,'' said Sriram, another customer.

Available in different designs, the price tags of earthen lamps range between rupees 1 to a few hundred, depending upon the size and style.

Tradition has it that the diyas are lit on the occasion of Diwali, marking the return of Lord Ram to his home in Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. These also signify triumph of good over evil. (ANI)