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1. Lighting diyas and lamps: To represent the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, people light traditional oil lamps called diyas and decorative candles in their homes and surroundings.
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2. Rangoli art: To decorate homes and greet guests, intricate patterns and designs are made on the floor using colourful powders, rice or flower petals. No Diwali celebration is complete without the beautiful colours of rangoli.
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3. Bursting firecrackers: Traditionally, fireworks and crackers are used during Diwali celebrations to represent the triumph of light over darkness. However, nowadays people avoid burning crackers due to environmental concerns.
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4. Exchange of gifts: On this day, people visit their families and friends and it is customary to exchange gifts and sweets as a gesture of love and goodwill.
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5. Decorating homes: Homes are cleaned and adorned with colourful decorations, flower garlands and strings of lights to create a festive atmosphere.
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6. Worship of Lakshmi: To obtain the blessings of the Goddess of Wealth for prosperity and abundance, devotees offer prayers or pujas to the Lakshmi. Pujas are also performed in homes, workplaces and shops.
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7. Feasting: During this festive period, special Diwali sweets and savoury dishes are prepared and shared with loved ones.
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