Diwali is celebrated in a unique manner in Mhow. Unlike other parts of India where the day of Lakshmi Puja is the main day of this festival in Mhow the next day is the main day. It is known as 'Dhok Padwa' (aka Govardhan Puja - the day cattle are worshipped). It is a unique sight one sees in the Mhow market. People get dressed in their best and visit one’s their neighbours, friends and acquaintances. Friends embrace each other and wish each other a happy Diwali. The young bend down and touch the feet of their elders as a mark of respect and receive their blessings. The word “dhok” refers to the respectful obeisance towards one’s elders which the young pay by touching their feet.
The Mall - All lit up. Midnight of 12-13 November 2012.
Firecrackers being sold on the outskirts of Rau, near Mhow.
Garland seller near the Mhow Fort, selling garlands at Rs 10 per garland.
Sreyas and Shruti were with their grandmother during Diwali. They do not like the Diwali of Mumbai.
The Member of Parliament from Indore Mrs Sumitra Mahajan visits Mhow without fail on Dhok Padwa and wishes the citizens here a happy Diwali.
These boys told me that I had clicked them on Holi and so I MUST click them on Diwali as well!!! Impeccable logic, I must say....
The Sai Bhaktas wishing every one a Happy Diwali....
Mr C Kulkarni with the model he made for his grand-daughter.
Rangoli made by 70 year old Mr Dhodapkar....
Rangoli (Maharashtra Samaj area)
Rangoli being made at the Kulkarni house.
Rangoli competition at the Maharashtra Samaj...
Rangoli with a Radha Krishna theme being made in a house in the Maharashtra Samaj area...
Celebrating Dhok Padwa....
These gracious ladies readily agreed when I requested them for a 'Dhok Padwa' shot...
Last but not least....
On Main Street in Mhow Bazaar... Clicked by Raj Kumar Saini...
