Diwali 2021: Take a look at how India is gearing up for celebrations

Diwali or the 'festival of lights' is celebrated across India; where people buy decorations ahead of the festivities. (Express photo by Gurmeet Singh)

Albeit subdued in nature due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, people thronged the markets of Ludhiana. (Express photo by Gurmeet Singh)

They were clicked buying a variety of items to beautify their homes during Diwali; pictured here are festive streamers and other objects that will invite good luck and prosperity. (Express photo by Gurmeet Singh)

Women buy earthen, bejewelled pots ahead of Diwali celebrations; these are markers of auspicious items used during Lakshmi Puja on Diwali. (Express photo by Gurmeet Singh)

Wall hangings that say 'Shubh' and 'Laabh' which mean 'luck' and 'prosperity' being sold before Diwali celebrations in Ludhiana. (Express photo by Gurmeet Singh)

'Diyas' or small, earthen lamps are true markers of the festival of lights. People buy them by the dozens and illuminate their homes. (Express photo by Gurmeet Singh)

A roadside stall near N S Phadke Chowk in Sadashiv Peth, Pune, selling sky lanterns ahead of Diwali. (Express Photo By Pavan Khengre)

Pune residents look mesmerized at a group of sky lanterns being sold before Diwali celebrations. (Express Photo By Pavan Khengre)

Flowers play a major part in Diwali celebrations as they are associated with divinity; pictured here is a crowded flower market in New Delhi. (Express photo by Praveen Khanna)

Marigolds in a New Delhi flower market ahead of Diwali celebrations. (Express photo by Praveen Khanna)

Flower decorations are extremely popular during Diwali celebrations. They are used in rangoli and various other items. (Express photo by Praveen Khanna)

Shopkeepers tidy up bundles of flower garlands to be sold before Diwali. (Express photo by Praveen Khanna)