Hi Mari,

You are right. 17th was Diwali - in some parts of India it is also the beginning of a new year.
Mythologically it celebrates the victory of good over evil, and traditionally lamps are lit and fireworks burst.

I am not a believer, but I enjoy lighting lamps.
All of India is lit up that night.
Even the poorest light whatever they can afford - unfortunately not very much.

The government is clamping down on crackers over the past few years - pollution, and to put a stop to the child labour mostly used in their production.
It should have been done many years ago, and the restrictions are still not adequately enforced, but an awareness has been created.
But it is a festive night and the vibes are all positive.

This time because of the new painkiller I am on I managed to light a few lamps myself. The rest were done by the others.
It felt good