Ahmedabad: Friday was the last working day for many offices in the city with the weekend marking Diwali festivities and the next week ushering in the New Year Day. City markets were chock-a-block with last-minute shoppers buying festival-related essentials and gifts. Items meant for ceremonial purchase, such as new brooms and earthen lamps, were in high demand.
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“Traditionally, the five-day celebrations start from Dhanteras , followed by Kali Chaudash, Diwali, New Year Day, and Bhai Bij,” said Satyendra Shastri, a city-based priest. He said, “While persons associated with trade and business perform Lakshmi Puja , Dhanteras is also considered auspicious for the puja and the purchase of precious metals and other valuables. Some people perfrom Kubera Puja. For the medical community, it was the day to celebrate Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods. At various hospitals, including SGVP and Civil , staff members participated in Dhanvantari Pujan with prayers for the well-being of all. The start of Diwali festivities has also spurred a rise in fire incidents. Ahmedabad Fire and Emergency Services (AFES) officials urged citizens not to set off firecrackers on roads and to choose open grounds to prevent accidental fires. They also requested citizens to be mindful while setting off crackers such as rockets near high-rises. Saturday is Kali Chaudash (also identified as Narak Chaturdashi). At many households, the day is marked by preparing lentil vadas and placing them near crossroads to ward off evil spirits. Download the TOI App.