Colourful earthen lamps for Diwali attract people in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

More than five thousand kinds of earthen lamps are on display at a grand fair in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, that have attracted many visitors ahead of Diwali.

Earthen lamps are synonymous with Diwali as they adorn every corner of a home, or even streets during the festival, and add warmth to the festive spirit. The hand-made colourful lamps in various shapes and sizes were available at the fair that has been organised by state government's handloom and handicrafts department.

Artisans from 24 districts of the country are displaying their work at the fair in Bhopal. "A lot of new varieties for the lamps are available and according to the latest trends, we would also like to pray in front of the goddess in a new way with new types of earthen lamps," said a customer, Mina Thakur, while adding she always does something new every Diwali.

The traditional lamps - made of clay and terracotta - are much in demand despite the availability of modern designer lamps and candles in the markets. The lamps with miniature idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi were also seen at the fair. The fair started on October 18 and will conclude on October 21.

An artisan, Pradeep Prajapati, said the lamps are luring many customers as they are reasonably priced and available in many colours and designs. "The lamps are good and there are more than 1,000 varieties with me. Made of mud and clay, the lamps are very durable and don't soak much oil. The lamps are made after a lot of hard work by the workers," said Prajapati.