As Diwali celebrations come to an end, Mumbai is facing a major problem of poor air quality. The city is engulfed in a thick layer of smog, with visibility reduced to minimal in some areas. The situation has been worsened by unseasonal rain, with no significant improvement in air quality. It is not just Mumbai, but several other cities in India are also dealing with pollution levels breaching the "very poor" and "severe" categories. With AQI readings hitting 380 in some areas, measures need to be taken to combat this worsening air quality situation.
The Udupi Catholic diocese has extended warm Diwali greetings, citing the festival as a symbol of moving from darkness to light, falsehood to truth, and death to new life. The diocese emphasizes India's diversity and unity in celebrating different festivals together. Sharing a symbolic story, the diocese urges people to be the candle of hope that relights peace, faith, and love in the world. The message concludes with a call to action to be the light that builds bridges of love, faith, and compassion.
The Hindu Vikram Samvat calendar marks October 22, 2025, as Gujarati New Year, a day of renewal, positivity, and joy for devotees. From early morning prayers to temple visits, sweets, and sharing warm messages, the day is a festive symbol of hope and abundance. As it falls a day after Diwali, it's also a time to open new accounts, perform rituals like Chopda Puja, and spread love, gratitude, and togetherness with family and friends.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, founder of Indian biotech giant Biocon, met with top government officials in Karnataka, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, to discuss the city's deteriorating infrastructure. This follows a recent social media post where Shaw called out the government for their ineffective management and lack of accountability. With heavy rains expected in the coming days, these concerns take on even more urgency as residents brace for potential waterlogging and traffic congestion.
Hospitals in the city have reported an increase in burn cases linked to the celebration of Diwali, with over a hundred cases reported at AIIMS Delhi alone. Despite the worsening air pollution, no major increase in respiratory distress cases was seen, but senior doctors anticipate an increase in the coming days. Several patients who suffered burns during the festival recounted how even seemingly harmless firecrackers resulted in severe injuries. While most cases were minor, a total of 129 patients were treated for firecracker-related injuries at Safdarjung Hospital.
Diwali, the festival of lights, is a celebration of good over evil and light over darkness. This festival is rooted in a rich history of mythological connections, with Hindus commemorating Lord Rama and his victory over the demon king Ravana. However, Diwali is not limited to just one faith - it is celebrated across beliefs and traditions, including Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists. Festivities and celebrations during this time include illuminations, rituals, feasting, and community gatherings, making it a time of joy, renewal, and gratitude.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis honors the brave officers who sacrificed their lives in an ambush laid by Chinese troops in Ladakh. He pays respects at the martyrs' memorial on Police Commemoration Day, highlighting their inspiration for courage and integrity. The event is observed annually to remember the 10 valiant policemen who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Diwali by joining the armed forces aboard INS Vikrant, India’s indigenous aircraft carrier. A cultural programme on the vessel, showcasing the creative talents of naval personnel, left a lasting impression on the PM. He took to Twitter to express his admiration for the emotional and artistic depth within the armed forces, highlighting the symbolic power of Diwali – light triumphing over darkness – as a reflection of India’s growing strength.
On the sacred occasion of Diwali and the Hindu New Year, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj extended blessings to BAPS followers worldwide. In a handwritten letter, he encouraged individuals to celebrate a Diwali that glows within the soul and radiates throughout society, with lamps of service, humility, and righteousness. He prayed for universal well-being in the New Year and reminded devotees to ignite the flame of virtue in their homes, not just through lighting lamps but also through acts of love, compassion, and service.
This upcoming Diwali in 2025, Indians and Hindu communities around the world will be celebrating amidst a digital revolution. With virtual parties, online shopping, and eco-friendly decorations, technology is transforming the age-old festival into a modern extravaganza. Social media influencers have played a crucial role in promoting the digital celebration, along with the rising environmental consciousness reflected in the use of biodegradable diyas and organic rangoli colours. This 'digital Diwali' not only brings a new level of convenience but also promotes creativity and sustainability.