Panaji, Oct 20 (PTI) Goa ushered in Diwali with the pre-dawn ritual of burning effigies of the demon Narakasur, signalling the start of the festival of lights across the coastal state on Monday.

Residents gathered in various towns, including Margao (South Goa) and Panaji (North Goa), where life-sized effigies of Narakasur were paraded and then burnt to mark the victory of good over evil.

At various events, artists dressed as Lord Krishna enacted the symbolic slaying of the demon Narakasur.

Keeping with tradition, homes across Goa glowed with lamps and lanterns, dawn rang with the crackle of firecrackers, and many observed the ritual oil bath, or 'abhyangsnan', to mark the festive spirit.

Later, Goans embraced the broader Diwali festivities — feasting, visiting loved ones, lighting diya

See Full Page