Despite bans, firecrackers sizzle across India for Diwali

A man lights a firecracker to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, in Ahmedabad, India, November 1, 2024. REUTERS/Amit Dave

VANCH VILLAGE, India (Reuters) - Firecrackers are central to Diwali celebrations for millions of Indian Hindus and this year was no different even as some cities, including New Delhi, banned their use to curb some of the worst pollution levels in the world.

Diwali honours the victorious return of Lord Rama, one of Hindiusm's most revered figures, and was celebrated in India on Thursday. It is also known as the festival of lights to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness, or good over evil, explaining why fireworks are so central to the celebrations.