People of West Bengal spread cheer with designer candles, lights ahead of Diwali

Siliguri/Indore, Nov.8 (ANI): People in Siliguri District of West Bengal illuminated their houses with designer candles and lights ahead of Hindu festival of Diwali, which makes for a cost-effective and fashionable option at the same time.

Shops are lined with designer candles and Chinese lights, available in various shapes and sizes, which are an instant hit with customers.

Not only are they cheaper than the rest, but they are also serving to be innovative Diwali gifts.

The Chinese lights are considered to be pocket-friendly and fancy too.

Recently a survey conducted by the Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Assocham) reveal that there has been a yearly increase of 45 percent in the demand for Chinese manufactured products.

A shopkeeper, Kamal Sinha, said it was a good option as candles are attractive and they are more long lasting.

"It is a good option. It is beneficial to buy candles, if we switch on these lights; they all light up at the same time. With normal candles, you have to light them one at a time," he said, while speaking to a reporter on Thursday.

Meanwhile, a customer, Nisha Tewari, said that it is a fashion statement and considered to be a cost-effective at the same time.

The shops in Bhopal city of central Madhya Pradesh state have shelves full of decorative candles and diyas (earthen lamps).

"This is a trend these days and it is considered better to use candles, because oil has become expensive," she said.

Diwali, which will fall on Tuesday (November 13) this year, is celebrated with great fervour and gaiety all over India as it marks the return of Hindu god Lord Ram to Ayodhya in northern India after he defeated Ravana, the powerful king of Lanka.

Legend says millions of lamps were lit when Lord Ram returned after 14 years of exile in forests and after he defeated Ravana.

Diwali is also celebrated in honour of Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that goddess Lakshmi, signifying prosperity, showers her blessings upon those homes that are clean and well lit. (ANI)