Diyas lit in HP on PM Modi's call, no immediate report of power tripping

A majority of people in Himachal Pradesh lit diyas on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal on Sunday at 9 pm.

There was no immediate report of power tripping in the state.

In state capital Shimla, the district administration played out a siren exactly at 9 pm.

People were seen lighting diyas and candles at their doorsteps and balconies after switching off the lights.

Bavita Shukla, a resident of Five Benches near Jakhoo in the city, said people here follow PM Modi's directions with full spirit. She lit several candles on the balcony of her house.

Firecrackers were also burst by some people and some were heard raising slogans in enthusiasm. Some people also recited Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, a verse from the Rigveda chanted for one's rejuvenation, while lighting diyas.

The siren by the authorities was also played at 9.09 pm marking the end of the nine minute period.

PM Modi had on Friday urged people across the country to switch off the lights at their homes and light up lamps, candles or mobile phone torches for nine minutes at 9 pm to display the country's "collective resolve" to defeat the coronavirus pandemic.