Diwali celebrated in India (PHOTOS)
Light decorations are pictured at a shop ahead of Diwali in Amritsar on November 6, 2012. Electric lights and traditional lamps are in heavy demand for the forthcoming Hindu festival of lights, Diwali, which falls on November 13 this year marking the victory over evil and commemorating the time when the Hindu god Lord Rama achieved victory over Ravana and returned to his kingdom Ayodhya.
Diwali, the festival of lights, is being celebrated with less noise and smoke this year.
According to Indian newspaper The Economic Times, higher prices and school campaigns have dampened sales of fireworks. Shop owners have said it's the worst Diwali for them, with sales of fireworks down 60 percent, because of rising awareness of the pollution caused by fireworks.
Schools have been educating students about the noise and air pollution caused by fireworks, and the government has also been running public awareness campaigns, causing this year's Diwali celebrations to be a little less bright and loud.
Our coverage reaches millions each week, but only a small fraction of listeners contribute to sustain our program. We still need 224 more people to donate $100 or $10/monthly to unlock our $67,000 match. Will you help us get there today?