The spirit of Diwali remains strong in the Northern Division, with families coming together to prepare for the Festival of Lights despite the challenges of dry weather and water shortages brought about by El Nino.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Suresh Chand, a resident of Laqere, Tabia in Labasa, says preparations are well underway, with people cleaning their homes, putting up lights and getting ready to celebrate the festival this weekend.
Chand says despite the challenges associated with the dry season, enthusiasm remains high among residents.
HINDI INSERT: Chand on Diwali atmosphere 4th Nov
He says there is plenty of activity in the villages, with women preparing sweets, devotional songs being heard and religious stories being told.
Chand says Diwali is the biggest festival of the year for many Indo-Fijian families and is also regarded as the last major festival of the year in the Hindu religious calendar.
He says supermarkets in town are also experiencing large crowds as families shop for their Diwali needs.
He adds that people are determined to celebrate this year's Diwali with the same joy and enthusiasm as in previous years.
Meanwhile, Diwali will be celebrated this Sunday, while the public holiday falls on Monday.
