The sound of fire crackers started echoing as the city of lakes prepares to mark Deepawali Celebration on Thursday 23^rd Oct.

Today on the occasion of Roop Chaudas which is celebrated a day before the festival of lights, women of the city had a busy time in beauty parlors and salons as the day of Roop Chaudas has special significance of beautifying and preparing for the next day.

Roop Chaturdashi or Roop Chaudas is celebrated a day before the Diwali festival. The word ‘Roop’ represents beauty while ‘Chaturdashi’ marks the fourteenth day of the sacred month of Kartik in the Hindu Lunar Calendar.

 It is also known as Narak Chaturdash and Kali Chaturdash in some parts of the country. Goddess Kali is worshipped on this day.

UT Photo Journalist Ayush Devpura has captured some amazing photos of women with traditional thaalis in their hands.

Once again UT wishes all its readers, subscribers, advertisers and well wishers a very Happy Deepawali!