Festivals are occasions to foster a spirit of unity among the people. Like the rest of the country, Northeastern states are celebrating Durga Pooja with great enthusiasm and unity.
In Agartala, the streets bore a festive look with colorful lights, intricately designed marquees and people beating drums. The markets and temples seemed to have come alive with the spirit of Durga Puja.
People from all religions participated in the celebrations showcasing a perfect example of unity and harmony.
Buoyed by the festive atmosphere, Umesh Jain, a shopkeeper, said that Durga Pooja is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the region.
"On this Durga Festival, I want to give my best wishes to everyone. There were disturbances caused due to incessant rain but for the last 14-15 days one can feel the enthusiasm and festivity again," he said.
"Puja is for everyone and we enjoy it without any differences. Everyone celebrates it and meet friends and relatives. The markets are having huge rush and it has become tough to enter the markets. I have bought dresses for my children," said Portia Begum, a local.
"Everyone should live together in peace without any discrimination base on religions or caste. On this occasion I will pray for everyone to live in peace," said Anita Das, another local.
In Assam, Durga Puja was celebrated with much fervour as people came out in hordes to enjoy the festivities.
In Guwahati, around 500 pooja pandals were set up with unique themes and styles.
During the festival, people offered prayers to goddess Durga and wished for a prosperous future.
Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi also visited Barwari pooja mandap and sought the blessings of Goddess Durga.
