Traditional Dipali observed

Members of the Hindu community of Barisal observed Maha Shamshan Dipali on Monday night at Maha Shamshanghat and Dipabali Utsab at their homes.
Narayan Chandra Dey Naru, secretary Barisal Maha Shamshan Rakkha Committee, said that the religious festival dates back over 160 years and has been observed with rituals at Barisal Maha Shamshan since 1850 on the night before Kali Puja.
Several thousand people from different parts of the country attend the festival every year.
Several colourful balloons (Fanush) , were released in the sky on the night of Diwali. Stalls of sweetmeats and traditional toys were arranged in a fair at the area.
Homes were lit up at night.