Ahmedabad's Diwali: From Sentry's Stop to Digital Accounts

Ahmedabad's Diwali is deeply intertwined with the city's mercantile history and its founding legend, which speaks of Goddess Lakshmi being prevented from leaving by a sentry. The festival traditionally signifies the conclusion of financial transactions for the year, with new account books beginning from the first day of the Gujarati month of Kartika.

The custom of 'chopda pujan' or book-worship, dating back over a century, involves priests blessing new account books. This ceremony, described in historical gazetteers, traditionally took place on the last day of the year.

While accounting practices have largely digitized, historians note that these centuries-old customs persist. Professor Ramji Savaliya recalls earlier Diwali celebrations marked by earthen lamps, homemade delicacies, and a focus on cattle worship in rural areas, contrasting with today's emphasis on firecrackers and decorations.

Modern celebrations in Ahmedabad blend tradition with contemporary festivities. Residents like Smita Rajyaguru describe days starting with rangoli and toran decorations, culminating in Lakshmi Pujan and firecrackers in the evening, embodying the festival of light and sound.