Ludhiana, Oct. 20  Diwali, the biggest festival of lights, is a day when all Hindu families celebrate the return of Lord Rama from 14-year exile to Ayodhaya, his kingdom, as mentioned in Ramayana. It is said people lit earthen lamps using Ghee, clarified butter.

Since ancient time, the devotees of Lord Rama lit earthen lamps, called Diyas in local parlance, and celebrate Diwali.

The tradition has been to light earthen lamps which is considered auspicious.

Amritsar, Oct. 20 : While Hindus around the world celebrate their biggest festival of lights Diwali with full enthusiasm, Sikhs celebrate the day as `Bandi Chor Diwas'' or, the day of release of detainees.

Sikh history traces these celebrations way back to the 17th century. It was during the reign of the Mughal emperor Jahangir when they got into conflict with Sikhs.

Chandigarh, Oct 20 : Diwali, the festival of light, brings excitement to our mundane lives. And clearly visible is Punjab’s consumption oriented culture and the desire to spend without restraint during the festive season.

Besides myriad lights and dazzling fireworks, the markets are offering discounts and schemes along with a host of attractions to the shoppers.

Companies are displaying a range of products along with discounts and free gifts. The sale of high end products has taken off. “I am always excited during Diwali, because generally at this time we spend as per our savings. We are planning to buy TV and DVDs for our kids and families,” said Arti Sharma, a shopping enthusiast.