Siliguri (West Bengal): In a gesture of harmony, Border Security Forces (BSF) of India exchanged sweets with Border Guards of Bangladesh (BGB) on the occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights at Indo-Bangladesh border today.

Reciprocating the Indian gesture, the BGB soldiers too gave Indian soldiers sweets at the border.

Diwali is celebrated with fervour and enthusiasm in across India. As per Hindu mythology, the festival marks the return of Lord Ram after his victory over the demon king Ravana in distant Lanka, as well as the culmination of his 14-year-long exile. Lord Ram is widely regarded as the reincarnation of Lord Vishnu in Hinduism.

On this occasion, the BSF troops also exchanged sweets with BGB at the Akhaura integrated check post on Friday, ahead of the beginning of Diwali festivities.

Diwali is also celebrated to honour Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth and prosperity. She is the consort of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that the Goddess Lakshmi blesses those homes that are clean and well lit.

People also believe that buying even a small amount of wealth, be it in from of gold, house, vehicle or anything new will lead to receiving the same in multifold with the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.

On Diwali, people illuminate their houses with coloured lights and earthen lamps and buy something new and also light fireworks to celebrate the festival.

(With inputs from ANI)