Nellore: Intermittent rain on Saturday dampened Diwali festivities to some extent in SPSR Nellore district, even as Naraka Chaturdasi was observed with traditional fervour across Nellore and Prakasam districts.
People began the day with the customary sesame oil bath, considered auspicious on Naraka Chaturdasi, and visited temples in new clothes.
Special pujas were performed at homes and temples, while families exchanged greetings and prepared traditional sweets and delicacies.
Markets had witnessed a festive rush on Friday, with firecracker outlets, textile shops and consumer electronics showrooms reporting brisk business.
However, firecracker sales in Nellore city fell short of traders’ expectations on Saturday due to intermittent showers, traders said.
Jewellery shops also reported increased footfall on Friday, with people buying gold ornaments and coins, including in small quantities, as part of the Dhanteras tradition.
As dusk set in, neighbourhoods were illuminated with decorative lights, while people burst crackers despite occasional showers.
Celebrations continued into the late hours.
With Naraka Chaturdasi setting the festive mood, people were preparing for Diwali celebrations on Sunday by decorating their homes with earthen lamps, colourful lights and other festive items.
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