Rows of lamps, streets all lit up...this is the general atmosphere during Deepavali. Earlier, Deepavali was truly a festival of lights, whatever be the mythological stories associated with Deepavali. And once upon a time, this four-day festival was a special occasion when all the members of the family got together and celebrated the festival, truly a time when the gloom was dispelled.

Deepavali was the festival that brought about excitement among the young and old alike. Perhaps the only festival apart from Ganesha Chaturthi, Rajyotsava and Dussehra to inspire such excitement.

Breaking all geographical and religious boundaries, the Deepavali festival is one that brings the people together.

The manner in which Deepavali is celebrated today is quite different from the way it was celebrated a few decades ago. Even with the passage of time, Deepavali is still celebrated in a grand manner all over, Tumkur included. Preparations are being made all over the district, for the coming festival.

Celebrations

The main celebrations include those for Naraka Chaturdashi on Thursday, amavasya and Lakshmi puja on Friday, and Balipadyami on Saturday. Sunday being bidige, some communities have a religious ceremony. But the main focus of this festival is definitely Naraka Chathurthi, when various varieties of sweet dishes are made, and several religious ceremonies are held.

But unfortunately, this is not the first thing that strikes you about Deepavali celebrations - not just in Tumkur city, but also in the rural areas. Deepavali has come to mean fireworks and sweets, wearing new clothes and going to restaurants to tuck into a good meal. The class of people who have follow this trend has been increasing.

A visitor to the City will not see too many lights, or the grandeur that would accompany Deepavali celebrations in the past. If one spots two or three lamps shining at a doorstep, then one must count himself very lucky indeed.