Did you receive many snacks and sweets for Diwali 2024? Are you wondering what to do with them? Are you trying different ways to finish them off before they turn soft or go bad? Well, a vlogger recently posted a unique solution to this dilemma. It consists of dipping the snacks with tea (chai or “chaha” in Marathi) every day til they’re over. In the reel shared by @hungryexplorerss, we see a person dunking a bhajni chakli into a cup of tea. Next, they are seen adding some poha chivda to the drink. Both of these treats are a part of traditional Diwali faral – a collection of Maharashtrian delicacies typically made/distributed during this festival.
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The text on the video reads, “Ata kahi divas hach nashta” [“For some days now, this is the only breakfast/ meal.” It is followed by a laughing emoji and a heart emoji. Take a look below.

The viral video has received 3.6 million views so far. Foodies had a lot to say about it in the comments section. While some disliked the idea of chivda and chai, others simply joked it was a kind of “masala chai”. A few people shared other types of Diwali faral they like having with tea.

Read some of the reactions from Instagram below (some are translated from Marathi):

“No way chivda .. justice for chivda.”

“Real meaning of masala chaha.”

“Chaha-karanji is the best combo.”

“I’ve tried tea with shankarpali, but with chivda, it’s a different combo.”

“After chivda, you make masala tea.”

“You can dunk laddoo in the chai.”

“Chai with chakli is my favourite.”

“I never tried this.”

Diwali may be over but are you still craving delicious Maharashtrian snacks? Click here to check out some of the timeless delights.
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NASA, known for its exploration of space and scientific endeavours, celebrated Diwali, the Festival of Lights, by sharing greetings on their official X account. This post included an awe-inspiring image taken by the Hubble Space Telescope, showcasing star formation in the Omega Nebula (M17), which visually represents the vast, luminous beauty of the universe. The message emphasised parallels between the wonder of the cosmos and the symbolic light of Diwali, stating, “Wishing you a joyful #Diwali! Just as the cosmos lights up our universe with endless wonder, Diwali illuminates our homes and hearts.” This highlighted NASA’s unique approach of merging cultural celebrations with scientific imagery.

Sunita Williams’ special Diwali message from space

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, stationed aboard the International Space Station (ISS), also extended her Diwali wishes through a video message. Speaking from space, she shared greetings with people celebrating in the U.S. and across the globe, adding a special mention of the White House festivities. Her message underscored the universal nature of Diwali, transcending Earthly boundaries, and showcased the connection between space exploration and personal celebrations.

Sunita Williams acknowledging the Indian-American community

Williams took the opportunity to express her appreciation to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for their involvement in the White House Diwali celebrations. By recognizing the Indian-American community and their contributions, Williams underscored the importance of inclusivity and cultural respect at a national level. In her message, Williams reflected on Diwali’s deeper meaning, emphasising that it represents joy and the triumph of goodness. This sentiment aligns with the festival’s core values of hope, light, and victory over darkness, resonating with many communities around the world.

Tech leaders celebrate Diwali with heartfelt messages

The Diwali celebrations extended beyond NASA and space, as tech industry leaders also participated in the festivities. Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet and Google, highlighted his personal affection for the holiday, noting its significance in bringing light into homes and lives. His message on Threads conveyed his warm wishes to those observing the festival.

Tim Cook’s Diwali tribute highlights unity and light

Apple CEO Tim Cook contributed to the celebrations by posting an artistic photo taken by Indian photographer Rohit Vohra, featuring traditional Diwali diyas on rose petals. His message on X, “Wishing everyone celebrating a joyous and peaceful Festival of Lights,” reinforced the themes of unity, hope, and light that Diwali embodies.
These greetings from prominent organisations and figures emphasise how Diwali’s message of light and hope resonates across various communities, industries, and even in space.
Also Read | Watch: NASA Rover Perseverance discovers a “googly eye” phenomenon on Mars and explore Phobos’ role in the search for life

Actor Ishaan Khatter had a pre-birthday celebration on Diwali with his family. Dressed in ethnic attire, Ishaan was surprised at the family gathering with three beautiful and delicious cakes. The best part? These cakes were made by his niece and Shahid Kapoor’s daughter Misha along with Mira Kapoor. Ishaan posted a picture from the birthday celebration on his Instagram Stories. He wrote, “Birthday on Diwali means 3 cakes (two made by my amazing 8-year-old niece) and a goofy bhaabs.” In the picture, we can see Ishaan dressed in a white kurta and feeding cake to his brother Shahid.

On the table, we can spot three different types of indulgent birthday cakes. One cake is covered in chocolate, and the second looks like a butterscotch chocolate cake topped with chocolate sauce and Ferrero Rocher. The third homemade cake with rainbow sprinkles and cherries looks like a vanilla cake.

Ishaan also posted a video from the celebration in which Misha can be seen blowing the candles along with him while Shahid dances to the music playing in the background.

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This is not little Misha’s first attempt at cooking. In a previous Instagram post, Mira shared pictures from an elaborate dinner planned by Misha and her nani. The eight-year-old also made hand-made place cards for each member of the family as well as label for the dish prepared by her – Apple Crumble for dessert. Other items on the dinner menu featured Pad Thai, Thai Curry and Jasmine rice. Read more about it here.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm throughout India and among Indian communities worldwide. It is a time marked by the illumination of lamps, family gatherings, vibrant fireworks, and the preparation of delicious traditional sweets. However, amid the festive cheer, the impact of post-Diwali pollution on health has become a growing concern, especially as environmental issues become more pressing. In 2024, understanding and mitigating these effects is essential for healthier celebrations.

The Causes of Post-Diwali Pollution

The primary sources of pollution during Diwali include:

Firecrackers: The bursting of firecrackers is synonymous with Diwali celebrations, but it is also the main contributor to air and noise pollution. Firecrackers release a variety of pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and heavy metals like lead and cadmium.

Increased Vehicular Emissions: Diwali brings an influx of travel as people visit friends and relatives, increasing the number of vehicles on the roads and the associated emissions.

Festive Waste: Decorations, packaging from gifts, and remnants of firecrackers contribute to solid waste, which can end up in landfills or open spaces, further exacerbating pollution.

Types of Pollution During Diwali

Air Pollution: The most significant environmental impact of Diwali is air pollution, which results from the excessive burning of firecrackers. The pollutants released into the air contribute to smog formation and poor air quality.

Noise Pollution: Firecrackers produce sound levels that often exceed the permissible decibel limit, leading to increased noise pollution. This can be particularly distressing for infants, the elderly, and individuals with health issues.

Water Pollution: Although less discussed, water pollution can also occur post-Diwali due to the improper disposal of waste materials and remnants from firecrackers.

Health Effects of Post-Diwali Pollution

The impact of pollution during and after Diwali is not just an environmental issue; it directly affects public health in numerous ways:

Respiratory Problems: High levels of particulate matter can irritate the airways, exacerbating conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions are at a higher risk of health complications.

Allergic Reactions: Pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides can trigger allergic reactions, including sneezing, coughing, and skin irritations.

Cardiovascular Concerns: Fine particulate matter can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Worsening Air Quality: The Air Quality Index (AQI) often shows a significant spike during Diwali. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, which already battle air pollution, experience a substantial decline in air quality, affecting millions of people.

Noise-Related Health Issues: Excessive noise from firecrackers can lead to hearing loss, increased stress levels, sleep disturbances, and heightened blood pressure.

How to Celebrate Diwali Safely

To minimize the adverse effects of pollution on health, consider the following tips for a more eco-friendly Diwali:

Opt for Eco-Friendly Firecrackers: Green crackers, developed to produce lower levels of pollutants, are a better alternative to traditional fireworks.

Celebrate with Lamps and Diyas: Shift the focus of your celebrations from firecrackers to lighting traditional oil lamps and diyas, which symbolize the true essence of Diwali.

Plant Trees: A simple yet effective measure is planting trees, which helps combat air pollution.

Limit Vehicular Use: Carpool or use public transportation to reduce traffic emissions during the festive period.

Practice Waste Management: Recycle and dispose of waste responsibly. Use biodegradable materials for decoration.

Post-Diwali Measures

Even after the festivities have ended, it is essential to take measures to protect your health:

Air Purifiers: Invest in air purifiers for indoor spaces, especially in areas where pollution levels are typically higher.

Masks: Wearing N95 or similar masks when stepping out can help filter fine particles in polluted air.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water aids in flushing toxins from the body.

Ventilate Your Home: Regularly open windows during the day (when the pollution levels are relatively lower) to allow for air circulation.

While Diwali is an occasion for celebration, it’s crucial to be mindful of the environmental and health impacts associated with the festival. By choosing sustainable practices and prioritizing our collective well-being, we can ensure that Diwali remains a joyous and health-conscious event. Reducing pollution doesn’t mean dimming the festival’s spirit; instead, it fosters a more meaningful, safe, and responsible way of celebrating.

(This article is meant for informational purposes only and must not be considered a substitute for advice provided by  qualified medical professionals.)

 

New Delhi: Diwali is one of the most popular festivals of India, marked by joy and fervour. Apart from the celebrations, this day has a special significance in the share market due to the ‘Muhurat Trading’ session that is held on the festival day every year.  

The new Samvat or Hindu New Year begins at the time of Diwali. During this time, many investors believe that trades made during Muhurat draw prosperity for the year ahead.

In view of these sentiments of the people, a special window of one hour is given for investing in the stock market on Diwali. In this special session, investors can easily invest in shares through their demat account.

In 2024, the Muhurat trading session will be held on the evening of November 1 and people will be able to invest in the stock market from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. However, trading in the market is closed during the day.

During the Muhurat trading session, normal trading takes place in all segments of the market and one can trade in derivatives along with equity. Muhurat trading was first started on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) in 1957. Muhurat trading on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) started in 1992.

Before the introduction of electronic demat accounts, traders used to participate in Muhurat trading on the exchanges. If the history of the last 11 years of Muhurat Trading sessions is reviewed, the stock market has performed positively in 9 out of 11 sessions. Since 2018, the market has consistently given positive returns on the day of Muhurat Trading. Only in 2016 and 2017, it gave negative returns.

In last year’s Muhurat Trading session, the Sensex rose 355 points, or 0.55 per cent, to 65,259 and the Nifty 50 index rose 100 points, or 0.52 per cent, to close at 19,525. During this period, midcap and smallcap stocks performed better, with the BSE Midcap index giving a return of 0.67 per cent and the BSE Smallcap index giving a return of 1.14 per cent.

The festival of lights, Diwali, is a cherished occasion celebrated with joy, colors, lights, and togetherness. However, it also brings unique challenges to health and safety due to increased pollution, heavy festive foods, fire hazards, and often hectic schedules. To make this Diwali both joyful and safe, here are some practical tips to keep you and your loved ones healthy and secure.

1. Firecracker Safety

Opt for Eco-Friendly Firecrackers: Choose green, eco-friendly crackers that produce less smoke and are less harmful to the environment.

Maintain Distance: Ensure a safe distance while lighting fireworks. Keep children and pets away from the area.

Use Safety Gear: Always light crackers with a long matchstick, wear cotton clothes, and keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.

Dispose of Fireworks Properly: Once the fireworks are used, soak them in water before disposal to prevent any accidental fires.

2. Preventing Air and Noise Pollution

Celebrate Mindfully: The traditional way of lighting diyas, lamps, and lanterns can be just as festive as firecrackers while significantly reducing pollution levels.

Encourage Community Celebrations: Instead of individual firecrackers, join community firework events. This minimizes pollution and allows for a more controlled environment.

Use Air Purifiers Indoors: If pollution levels rise, especially in urban areas, consider using an air purifier to keep indoor air cleaner and healthier.

3. Healthy Festive Eating

Mind Portion Sizes: With a variety of sweets and savory treats, moderation is key. Take smaller portions to enjoy the food without overindulging.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water will help in balancing any overindulgence and will keep your digestive system functioning well.

Incorporate Healthy Alternatives: Opt for baked or air-fried versions of snacks and include nuts, fruits, and dry fruits for a healthier twist on traditional favorites.

4. Managing Stress and Energy Levels

Plan and Organize: Diwali preparation can be demanding, so make a to-do list and tackle it gradually rather than rushing through everything.

Get Enough Rest: Lack of sleep and energy can lead to burnout, so ensure you’re getting adequate rest, especially on the days leading up to the festival.

Take Breaks During Celebrations: If you’re hosting or actively celebrating, make sure to take small breaks. Sit down, enjoy a snack, and relax for a few minutes to recharge.

5. Safe Decoration Practices

Use Fire-Resistant Decorations: Ensure that decorative materials are non-flammable, especially if you’re using candles or diyas near them.

Keep Diyas and Candles on Stable Surfaces: Place them in safe areas away from curtains, furniture, or anything that could catch fire easily.

Opt for LED Lights: LED lights are a safer, more eco-friendly option than traditional lights. They don’t heat up as much and are energy-efficient.

6. Skin and Eye Protection

Moisturize Regularly: Applying moisturizer can help protect your skin from dryness caused by pollutants and exposure to smoke.

Wear Protective Eyewear: If you’re lighting fireworks, consider wearing protective eyewear to shield your eyes from any sparks.

Use Saline Eye Drops: For those who experience irritation due to smoke, saline eye drops can help to soothe and clear the eyes.

7. Pet Safety Tips

Keep Pets Indoors: The loud sounds and bright lights from fireworks can distress pets. Create a safe, quiet room for them indoors.

Distract with Toys or Treats: Distracting your pet with toys or treats during fireworks can help them feel more secure.

Use Calming Products if Needed: Calming collars or sprays for pets can reduce anxiety during this stressful time

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, brings a joyous season of celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious treats. For those managing diabetes, however, Diwali’s spread of sweets and snacks can pose a challenge. Fortunately, with some mindful strategies and a bit of planning, you can enjoy the festive season without compromising your health. Here’s how to control diabetes and navigate the temptations of Diwali sweets.

1. Set Clear Limits on Sweets

Moderation is Key: Diwali may tempt you with an array of sweets, but it’s essential to enjoy them in moderation. Choose one or two of your favorite treats instead of sampling everything, and aim for smaller portions.

Choose Healthier Sweet Options: Traditional sweets like barfi, gulab jamun, and laddu are often high in refined sugar. Opt for sugar-free or low-sugar versions, which many stores now offer.

2. Try Homemade Diabetic-Friendly Sweets

Use Natural Sweeteners: When preparing sweets at home, you can replace refined sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit. These options keep the blood sugar spike in check and allow you to enjoy your favorite treats guilt-free.

Incorporate Whole Ingredients: Use ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and coconut flour to create wholesome sweets. These foods are low on the glycemic index and help provide a sense of fullness while stabilizing blood sugar levels.

3. Eat Balanced Meals Before Attending Festive Gatherings

Prioritize Proteins and Fiber: Having a protein- and fiber-rich meal before heading to a Diwali celebration can help control your appetite. Foods like lentils, chickpeas, vegetables, and lean proteins keep you feeling full and help stabilize blood sugar.

Avoid High-Carb and Sugary Snacks: While Diwali snacks like samosas, kaju katli, and jalebi are tempting, try to limit your intake of these foods, which can spike blood sugar. Instead, go for protein-rich snacks like roasted chickpeas or homemade chaat.

4. Stay Active During the Festivities

Take Short Walks: Aim to stay physically active by taking a short walk after meals, which can help manage blood sugar spikes. Encourage family members to join for a festive evening walk, making it both a bonding and a healthy activity.

Incorporate Diwali Chores: If you’re involved in cleaning or decorating, consider it part of your fitness routine. Activities like hanging lights, setting up decorations, or cleaning contribute to burning calories and controlling blood sugar.

5. Monitor Your Blood Sugar Regularly

Track Your Levels: During Diwali, keep an eye on your blood sugar levels, especially if you’re indulging in sweets. This will allow you to adjust your eating habits or medication if necessary.

Carry Emergency Snacks: Keep some nuts, seeds, or a small protein bar on hand, especially if you’re going to a gathering. These snacks can help prevent blood sugar dips or spikes, ensuring you maintain stable energy throughout the day.

6. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Choose Low-Sugar Options: If you plan to drink alcohol, stick to lower-sugar options like dry wine or spirits mixed with soda water, avoiding sugary cocktails and mixers.

Set a Limit: Moderation is important, as alcohol can interfere with blood sugar control. Set a limit of one or two drinks and have water in between to stay hydrated.

7. Practice Mindful Eating

Enjoy Each Bite: Diwali is as much about the experience as it is about the food. Savor each bite slowly and mindfully, which can help you feel more satisfied with smaller portions.

Be Conscious of Emotional Eating: Diwali can be a highly social time, leading to snacking out of habit or emotion rather than hunger. Before reaching for another treat, check in with yourself to see if you’re genuinely hungry.

(This article is meant for informational purposes only and must not be considered a substitute for advice provided by  qualified medical professionals.)

 

 

 

 

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on October 30 that the transformation of Ayodhya town is a proof of the ‘double-engine government delivering on its promise.’ The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader also asserted that a similar transformation must also happen in Kashi and Mathura towns of Uttar Pradesh by 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence.

Ayodhya was transformed into a breathtaking spectacle on Wednesday as it gleamed with the light of 25,12,585 diyas along the banks of the Saryu river in two world-record setting feats during the eighth edition of Deepotsav on Diwali eve.

This was the first Deepotsav since the consecration of the Ram Mandir on January 22, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath leading the celebrations, along with his cabinet colleagues and Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

The records that were set were for the largest display of oil lamps and most number of people performing an “aarti” simultaneously, representatives of the Guinness World Records declared in the evening.

“This is just the beginning and this beginning has to reach its logical conclusion. So by 2047, when the country celebrates 100 years of its independence, Kashi and Mathura must also shine like Ayodhya,” the Chief Minister said.

Kashi, Mathura Court Battles

A court battle is underway for the resolution of the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi mosque row in Varanasi. A similar court case is on over the Krishna Janam Bhoomi and the Shahi Eidgah dispute in Mathura.

Adityanath said Ayodhya’s transformation was “just the beginning” and part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the development of the heritage of Sanatan Dharma and taking it to the global stage.

Adityanath hit out at the opposition saying, “just like mafia dons, these barriers would also be eliminated.”

According to government estimates, more than 35 lakh lamps illuminated Ayodhya. Of these, 25,12,585 lamps were lit on 55 ghats, including Ram ki Paidi, along the Saryu river.

Deepotsav saw 1.71 lakh diyas in 2017, 3.01 lakh in 2018, 4.04 lakh in 2019, 6.06 lakh in 2020, 9.41 lakh in 2021, 15.76 lakh in 2022 and 22.23 lakh in 2023, the government said.

Beginning with 1.71 lakh lamps in 2017, the illumination has soared to an impressive 25,12,585 lamps in 2024, casting a radiant glow across Ayodhya. The lighting of more than 25 lakh lamps together set a new world record for the largest oil-lamp display, Guinness World Records adjudicator Pravin Patel announced.

This is just the beginning and this beginning has to reach its logical conclusion.

The other record was set for the first time – the highest number of people performing an “aarti” simultaneously, with 1,121 vedacharyas rotating diyas along the Saryu, Patel said.

India’s richest person, Mukesh Ambani and his family never fail to impress people. After throwing a lavish three-day wedding for their youngest son Anant Ambaani and his wife Radhika Merchant, Mukesh Ambani’s wife Nita Ambani-led Reliance Foundation has taken the internet by storm. This time for their extravagant and thoughtful Diwali 2024 hamper for their business associates.
A video posted on social media by RJ Rajas Jain, who works at Radio City Kannada, has gone viral with roughly 4,000 likes and several comments. “Deepawali Hamper From @reliancefoundation Thank You Nita Ambani and Mukesh Ambani for this lovely hamper,” Rajas Jain’s post read on Instagram, which was posted along with the video.
In the viral video, he is seen unpacking a Diwali gift hamper sent by Reliance Foundation, which has a super premium packaging. It is packed with several beautiful gift items like a greeting card, table linen, diyas handcrafted by specially-abled artisans, dhoop, a packet of almonds, and even a silver idol of Ganesh ji! What caught our attention was that some gift items also had small images of the artisans printed on its cover– a sweet gesture that shows the attention to all the small details.
Watch the video here:

While many people have commented on the video, some have praised the Ambanis’ for their large-heartedness while others have compared Reliance Foundation’s Diwali 2024 hampers with the ones which they have received from their offices. “This clan never disappoints people!!! They will never forget their sanatani roots,” one user commented on the video, while another complained, “We got only Dry Fruits ka dabba.”
For the unversed, the Reliance Foundation was established by Mukesh Ambani in 2010 and it is led by his wife Nita Ambani. The Foundation
works in several fields like education, women empowerment, environment, and more.
What did you get as a Diwali gift from your company? Tell us in the comments section below.