Houses were aglitter with myriad of lights as people across the country on Saturday celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights, with firecrackers, frenetic shopping and prayers.
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Armed with modern gizmos, police kept vigil looking for unruly revellers as people flocked markets for last-minute purchases.
President A P J Abdul Kalam, Vice-President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and Prime Minister Vajpayee greeted the people on the occasion.
In his message, the President said, "May this festival of lights radiate happiness and prosperity in every home across our country. On this auspicious occasion let the lamp of compassion, love and righteousness be lit."
The prime minister said, "This festival of lights gives us inspiration to fight against all odds and move forward on the path of progress and prosperity." A large number of people from all walks of life, including children, called on the prime minister to greet him on the occasion of Diwali.
Deputy Prime Minister Lal Kishenchand Advani and Union ministers Sahib Singh Verma, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Satyanarain Jatiya, B C Khanduri and C P Thakur were among the early visitors.