INDIA DIWALI TRAVEL
In a first since Covid, Diwali flight numbers fall as high fares, disruptions take a toll
Airlines scheduled about 6% fewer flights across October and November than a year earlier, according to data from aviation analytics firm Cirium. That marks the first capacity decline since 2020, when carriers slashed service capacity by nearly 45% amid the pandemic-induced collapse in travel demand.
Suvendu Sarkar rolls out Diwali bonanza for Bengal babus, hikes IAS allowances by 50%
The Suvendu Adhikari-led West Bengal government has announced a range of benefits for its IAS officers, including a 50% hike in monthly sumptuary allowances for senior officials, education loans of up to Rs 50 lakh for children's studies in India and abroad, and expanded foreign travel benefits under LTC. The package also includes housing, electricity and post-retirement benefits, along with allowances for official work-related expenses.
Tejas Rajdhani faster, cheaper than Vande Bharat Chair Car on Delhi-Patna route: Officials
The Vande Bharat Chair Car service on the New Delhi to Patna route is currently operational during peak holiday travel. Passengers are experiencing discomfort due to the lack of sleeper accommodations and longer travel times. Reports indicate that travelers prefer the faster and cheaper Tejas Rajdhani Express instead. The Railway Ministry is under pressure to increase permanent train services to accommodate year-round demand.
India's invisible pain: The dirt in the air comes with a hefty price tag for economy and businesses
Severe pollution plaguing Indian cities is taking a toll on businesses. Restrictions placed on construction and transportation impede the movement of goods, leading to increased operational expenses. Many consumers are opting out of outdoor activities due to dangerous air quality, resulting in a drop in sales and foot traffic.
Biggest tunnel boring machines coming to Mumbai: Giant TBMs to dig twin Coastal Road tunnels between Kandivli and Malad; check route, project details
Mumbai's 22-km Versova-Dahisar Link Road project has moved closer to the construction stage, with two giant tunnel boring machines undergoing factory tests in Chennai. The 15.6-metre TBMs will excavate 3 km of the proposed 3.9-km twin underground road tunnels between Malad and Charkop, nearly 40 metres below ground. Scheduled for launch in May 2027, the machines will be transported to Mumbai in parts on around 100 trailers. Here is a look at the tunnel project, construction challenges, traffic benefits and environmental concerns.
Passengers climbing through train windows, some travelling in toilets, others waiting 12 hours in queues: Railway stations witness unprecedented Diwali-Chhath chaos
Railway stations across Delhi, Mumbai, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are witnessing massive crowds as passengers head home for Diwali and Chhath Puja. Videos show commuters attempting to enter packed trains through doors and windows, while some wait up to 12 hours to board services. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw says 18,000 special trains have been added this festive season, alongside holding areas and AI-enabled cameras to manage crowds.
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Longer Diwali breaks: companies give employees more time to celebrate
Many companies are providing extended breaks for their employees during Diwali to promote well-being and family connections. Embassy Group is giving its employees a nine-day break, emphasizing a people-first culture. CashKaro is offering six days off to help employees recharge after the busy festive season. Myntra plans to recognize employee contributions with two additional holiday days following its sales period.
Diwali 2026: From Ayodhya’s sea of diyas to Goa’s fiery Narkasurs, India celebrates the festival in splendour
India celebrates Diwali on November 8 with spectacular displays of devotion and tradition, from lakhs of diyas illuminating Ayodhya’s Saryu ghats to giant Narkasur effigies burning in Goa. As families prepare for Lakshmi Puja, security is tightened, special trains ferry festive travellers and temples across Uttar Pradesh host elaborate celebrations.
Banks, schools, colleges and offices holiday tomorrow: What's open and what's closed on November 9, a day after Diwali; check latest announcements
November 9, 2026, will see different holiday arrangements across India following Diwali on Sunday. Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have announced additional holidays, while government offices in Mumbai, Pune and parts of Maharashtra will also remain closed. Banks will largely operate normally, subject to the RBI's city-wise holiday calendar.
Russia, US extend Diwali wishes to people in India
"Warm Diwali greetings to all our dear friends in India. light never diminishes by sharing; rather, it only increases. I believe that this very spirit of mutual respect, goodwill, and trust will continue to strengthen the friendship between India and Russia. May this auspicious festival of Diwali bring new hope, happiness, peace, and prosperity into your lives. Happy Diwali to you all," he said.
PM Modi celebrates Diwali with Bastar security forces, says India has overcome Naxalism
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with security personnel involved in anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region. He highlighted the significance of this Diwali as the first since the defeat of Naxalism. Modi commended the personnel for their sacrifices that contributed to eliminating Maoist insurgency from the region. He noted that every district in India is now free from Naxalism, allowing citizens to overcome fear.
'Ever seen what a widow looks like?': Accused's chilling threat to Tech Mahindra's ex-APAC head before murder
A fatal conflict over parking in Faridabad reached a deadly climax when Monu Sharma shot Paramjeet Dhankhar. Just hours prior, Dhankhar had taken his concerns to the police regarding threats from Sharma. In a calculated move, Sharma summoned Dhankhar to the parking lot, where he unleashed a barrage of nine shots from his licensed firearm, killing Dhankhar instantly. Police have apprehended Sharma and are investigating the roles of his family.
Bharat Ratna LK Advani Ji at 100: A life of service, ideology and nation-building
Shri Lal Krishna Advani Ji celebrates his hundredth birthday on November 8, coinciding with Diwali festivities. He has played a vital role in shaping modern Indian politics through the Jana Sangh and BJP. Advani Ji faced challenges, such as Partition, and rebuilt his life with determination and resilience. He was influential during critical moments, including the Emergency and the Somnath-to-Ayodhya Rath Yatra.
Diwali 2026 Gift Ideas: What India Is Actually Buying This Year — From Gourmet Hampers to Smart Gadgets
In 2026, Diwali gifting trends are shifting towards practical and personalized choices, moving away from the classic sweets. Gifts in demand now include gourmet food, home décor, electronics, and items reflecting personal style. Additionally, many are opting for wellness products and experiential gifts. It’s important to align gifts with the recipient's tastes and budget, as meaningful selections carry more weight than opulent choices.
Amid Ranbir Kapoor and Yash's Ramayana release, netizens share clips from Japanese filmmaker Yugo Sako's Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama. Where to watch the epic in India?
Ramayana: Part 1 made waves on November 5, 2026, debuting during the Diwali festival and featuring a talented ensemble cast. Its success has ignited interest in the animated gem Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama by Yugo Sako, which garnered a cult following despite its absence from Indian theaters in the 1990s. Fans are now looking back at this animation, drawing comparisons with newer renditions.
Winning at Diwali gifting: Ditch the mithai, bring on the bling
Diwali is celebrated with vibrant decorations, festive gatherings, and traditional rituals in India this year. Businesses are experiencing a significant increase in online sales leading up to the holidays. Families gather to enjoy rich cultural customs and unique gifting practices during this festive season. Various products, ranging from gold coins to luxury home items, are popular during this time.
India Inc lights up Diwali with longer weekends, flexible work and extra pay for festive shifts
Companies across India are making Diwali more employee-friendly through extended holidays, work-from-home options, practical gifts and workplace celebrations. Zepto advanced its holiday, while Hitachi India offered employees a choice of gifts. NoBroker.com organised celebrations involving support staff, and Trev Mobility announced additional payouts for driver-partners working during the festival.
Choti Diwali in North vs South India: 5 Traditions That Will Surprise You, From Ganga Snanam to Evening Diyas
Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is celebrated with strikingly different customs across India. While many North Indian families observe it with evening diyas, traditional baths and preparations for Lakshmi Puja, several South Indian communities celebrate Deepavali itself with pre-dawn oil baths, new clothes, festive breakfasts and firecrackers. Here are five traditions that reveal how differently the same festival is experienced across the country.
15,000 trains, 100+ special train pairs and a Vande Bharat: Indian Railways has a big Diwali & Chhath Puja gift for Bihar passengers
Indian Railways will operate 15,000 trains to and from Bihar to manage the festive rush during Diwali and Chhath, compared with around 12,000 services under normal operations. More than 100 pairs of special trains have also been arranged on routes connecting Bihar with Delhi, Punjab, Mumbai, Pune and other destinations. The Railways has also discussed new train services and infrastructure projects in the state.
Diwali sweet nothings: Like soan papdi, the annual festival stock tip is admired, passed along, and almost never 'eaten'
Diwali gifting traditions influence stock market trading strategies and recommendations across various brokerages during the festive season. Many analysts provide stock picks with target prices, which are frequently unattainable in the falling market. A significant number of brokerage reports underperform their benchmarks for prolonged periods of time.
Railway platform ticket sales suspended at six stations across Delhi and Ghaziabad; check the full list
Railway news: Northern Railway is implementing crowd-management measures at major railway stations in Delhi-NCR during the festive season. Platform ticket sales have been suspended at six key railway stations until November 14 to manage crowds. Special trains are being operated to accommodate the anticipated travel rush for Diwali and Chhath festivals. Enhanced passenger facilities, including holding areas, aim to improve the travel experience during this busy period.
School holiday today, November 5: Which states will remain closed? Check Diwali vacation, weather alerts and election-related updates
November school holidays: Schools in several states may remain closed on November 5 due to Diwali vacations, election-related holidays and weather alerts. Andhra Pradesh has declared a holiday for MPTC and ZPTC polling, while heavy rainfall warnings across parts of southern and eastern India could prompt local school closure orders. Check state-wise updates and the latest holiday announcements.
Diwali investment picks 2026: 10 fund managers reveal promising opportunities and risks to watch
This Diwali, investment experts advise a strategic approach focused on asset allocation rather than luring high-growth stocks. Sectors like banking, financial services, and premium goods present promising opportunities. While gold should only occupy a small fraction of a diversified portfolio for risk management, short-duration debt funds gain favour as interest rates shift. Maintaining discipline and patience is essential for long-term investment success.
700% jump in airfare: Supreme Court says 'don't travel by air'
The Supreme Court refused urgent listing of a plea alleging a 700% surge in airfares, with the bench telling passengers, "Don't travel by air." The case comes amid growing scrutiny of unpredictable airline ticket prices in India. The court is separately hearing a plea seeking an independent aviation regulator, transparent airfare rules and stronger passenger protection against exorbitant fare hikes.
School holiday tomorrow, November 2: Will schools remain closed in Delhi-NCR, Maharashtra and other states?
Parents and students are verifying whether schools will remain closed on November 2 due to upcoming festivals. Different states may begin Diwali vacations at varying times, impacting school schedules. Institutions in Delhi-NCR are likely to maintain regular classes unless stated otherwise. Schools in Maharashtra may have holidays beginning on November 2, leading to potential closures until November 14.
Forget festive hampers, companies are trading gift boxes for holiday getaways
Companies are shifting towards offering travel vouchers as a preferred gifting option for employees. This change allows for more personalised experiences with loved ones during holidays. Many firms are also providing flexibility in travel options, catering to individual preferences and interests.
Bengaluru to Paris Flight costs Rs 25,838, less than Prayagraj at Rs 27,817 for Diwali? Viral fare comparison has internet divided
As Diwali approaches, numerous Indians are grappling with steep airfare costs when returning home, sparking worries about travel expenses. A viral graphic recently illustrated how flying to Paris can be less expensive than travelling to Prayagraj, underscoring a surge in domestic flight prices during this festive period. The surge is influenced by factors like heightened demand and rising fuel prices.
6,200 special train trips for festive travel: Railways boosts services by 30% for Diwali, Chhath Puja; check Delhi-Patna, Delhi-Howrah & other routes
Northern Railway has planned over 6,200 special train trips for Diwali and Chhath Puja, a 30% increase from last year's 4,666 trips. The additional services aim to ease the festive rush on routes connecting Delhi and other northern cities with Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. Extra ticket counters, staff and security arrangements have also been introduced at stations.
Diwali travel rush: How to save on last-minute flight tickets and when to stop waiting for discounts
Waiting until the last minute in the hope of a sale can be costly. Airlines use dynamic pricing, and cheaper fares may disappear as more seats sell. If your dates are fixed, compare fares as early as possible and book when the price is reasonable for your budget. Set fare alerts to track changes, but don’t delay your booking expecting for a drop in prices.
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