India is glowing in festive lights as Diwali 2025 celebrations sweep across the nation. Streets are vibrant, markets are packed, and public enthusiasm is at an all-time high. This festive season has also sparked an economic boom, with massive spending across retail, jewellery, and electronics sectors.
Record-Breaking Dhanteras Sales
Traders’ associations have reported record sales worth over ₹1 lakh crore on Dhanteras alone. Precious metals led the charge, with gold and silver purchases surpassing ₹60,000 crore — nearly 25% higher than last year. Delhi alone recorded transactions exceeding ₹10,000 crore, reflecting strong consumer confidence and growing preference for local products.
Delhi’s Air Turns ‘Very Poor’; GRAP Stage 2 Enforced
While the country basks in the festive glow, Delhi’s air quality has plunged sharply. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked GRAP Stage 2 restrictions after AQI readings touched the 400 mark in parts of the city. The toxic haze is being linked to vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and waste burning, prompting authorities to issue fresh advisories.
Metro Services Revise Schedules for Diwali
To manage the festival rush, metro networks across India have modified their operations. In Delhi, trains on the Pink, Magenta, and Grey lines are starting early at 6 a.m. In Chennai, extended services will run from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. with higher frequency during peak hours, while the Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar Metro will close early at 7 p.m. on Diwali day.
Indian Railways Adds Over 75 Special Trains
The Indian Railways is running more than 75 pairs of special trains nationwide to handle the holiday rush. Western Railway alone is operating 2,400 additional trips, while Northern Railway has announced 4,718 special train services between September and November. Additional ticket counters and mobile ticketing units have been deployed to ease congestion.
Green Diwali Initiatives Gain Momentum
Several states are promoting eco-friendly celebrations this year. In Sikkim, authorities have urged citizens to avoid firecrackers and single-use plastics. In Ranchi, women’s groups are crafting thousands of cow-dung diyas daily, blending sustainability with entrepreneurship. Hand-painted clay diyas are also gaining traction, offering both income and an eco-conscious alternative.
Supreme Court Allows Limited Use of Green Crackers
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has permitted the sale and use of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR for two days, marking the first relaxation since the 2020 ban. The ruling aims to balance traditional celebrations with environmental concerns. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta welcomed the decision, calling it “a step towards responsible celebration.”
Ayodhya Sets New World Records
Ayodhya’s Deepotsav has once again made global headlines, with over 26 lakh diyas illuminating the Saryu riverfront. A new Guinness World Record was set with 2,128 people performing simultaneous aarti. The event, organized by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, showcased cultural performances and grand visual spectacles.
Muhurat Trading Timing Announced
Stock markets will remain closed for regular trading on Diwali day but will open for a special one-hour Muhurat Trading session from 1:45 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. on October 21. The session allows investors to make symbolic trades believed to bring prosperity and good fortune in the new financial year.
India in Celebration Mode
From Ayodhya’s glowing ghats to Mumbai’s illuminated skylines, the spirit of Diwali 2025 has united the nation. As people exchange sweets, light diyas, and share wishes, India’s festive pulse beats stronger than ever — merging tradition, sustainability, and economic optimism into one radiant celebration.
